Optimization model preparation

In ProTOp optimization model preparation comprises actions related to

• material regions classification,
• part configuration,
• imposition of technological constraints, and
• behavior of involved materials.

Material regions classification

Material regions classification is necessary in order to assign to each region its type, either free, fixed, or excluded.

Part configuration

Part configuration is a process of enforcing various geometrical features to free regions. In ProTOp this enforcement is achieved by engaging configurators. The following three configurator types are vailable to be used in any combination:

• solid configurator,
• shell configurator, and
• lattice configurator.

Imposition of technological constraints

Imposition of technological constraints might be necessary in order to assure that the final design will

• have the desired geometrical properties (for example, symmetry) and
• be compliant with production and other technological constraints (for example, unidirectional opening).

Behavior of involved materials

Material behavior adjustments might be very useful to achieve certain optimization goals. The two most useful actions are related to:

• elastic-plastic behavior and
• tension/compression control.