Buckling considerations and cross-sectional geometry development for topology optimised body in white

This paper will investigate how current state-of-the-art structural optimisation algorithms, with an emphasis on topology optimisation, can be used to rapidly develop lightweight body in white (BIW) concept designs, based on a computer aided design envelope. The optimisation models included in the paper will primarily focus on crashworthiness and roof crush scenarios as specified in the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) 216 standard. This paper is a continuation of a previously published paper, which investigated the potential effects of recently proposed changes to FMVSS 216 upon BIW mass and architecture using topology optimisation. The paper will investigate the possibilities of including buckling considerations of roof members directly into current state-of-the-art topology optimisation algorithms. This paper will also demonstrate the potential for developing a detailed BIW design including cross-sectional properties based on a styling envelope. © 2013 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.