How Generative Design Leads to Better Parts

The initial stage of developing a component or an item is frequently the most challenging. Regardless of whether you possess advanced CAD skills, are an experienced engineer, or a proficient machinist, it can be tough to pause and contemplate: In what manner should this part be designed? What precise form and configuration would most effectively fulfill its function? Is there an entirely new approach that could result in superior final outcomes?

Imagine if there existed a method to delegate the creative process to a machine. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if, rather than attempting to conceive fresh designs mentally, there was software capable of exploring countless new combinations and design options effortlessly?

Indeed, the software does exist, and it is recognized in the industry as generative design software. Through generative design, engineers have the ability to tackle part design from a unique perspective: rather than creating detailed blueprints of a part, the engineer defines the functionality requirements of the part instead. These requirements are entered as design parameters: Does the part have to support a certain load? What level of strength is necessary? Are there any material limitations? What is the allocated budget? Subsequently, the software takes care of the rest.

Possible generative design parameters:

• Maximum or minimum weight
• Dimensions
• Cost
• Materials
• Manufacturing processes
• Load-bearing requirements

Consider this scenario: as an engineer tasked with creating a coffee table using a specific material that will be sold for less than $100, you have the option to either sketch designs on paper or utilize generative design software. By using the software, you can input the table’s requirements and have it generate numerous variations based on your specifications. These variations could include tables with three legs, hollowed out sections, or unique designs. After generating hundreds or thousands of options, you can then choose a select few to further refine and develop.

Why use Generative Design?

The benefits of this method are clear. Primarily, enabling a computer to create its own designs within set limitations can yield groundbreaking and inventive outcomes — concepts that are extremely unconventional, beyond the scope of human imagination. While some of the designs generated by the computer may be less favorable than others, the production of numerous alternatives significantly alleviates the creative workload on the engineer.

Generative design offers a significant level of flexibility in terms of materials and manufacturing processes, depending on the software utilized. The software’s comprehension of various materials and manufacturing technologies enables it to generate designs tailored to those specific materials and technologies. Although additive manufacturing and 3D printing are commonly associated with intricate shapes, generative design is equally suitable for producing components for CNC machining and other conventional manufacturing processes.

Generative design and topology optimization, although distinct in meaning, are closely interconnected. Topology optimization, like generative design, utilizes algorithms to enhance a design through the removal of excess material while maintaining optimal strength. This often leads to intricate shapes that may bear resemblance to natural formations. Unlike generative design, which can generate various designs as long as they meet the desired outcome, topology optimization focuses on enhancing predetermined shapes or sections. Many generative design tools integrate elements of topology optimization.

Where to Find Generative Design Tools

Despite the perception of generative design as a sophisticated and futuristic procedure, it is increasingly being integrated into CAD software as a standard feature. Currently, popular software like Fusion 360 by Autodesk and Siemens NX, along with specialized generative design platforms like ParaMatters, offer a variety of software options ranging from free tools to premium packages tailored for industrial applications.

Following the design phase, the processes of prototyping and manufacturing are similar to those of any other product. This implies that the parts designed generatively can be prototyped or manufactured through XinTang’s machining, 3D printing, casting, and various other technologies.

Following the design phase, the processes of prototyping and manufacturing are similar to those of any other product. This implies that the parts designed generatively can be prototyped or manufactured through 3ERP’s machining, 3D printing, casting, and various other technologies.