Topology Optimization of Seat Cushion Frame With Dissimilar Materials for Lightweight Strength Optimization

Abstract

A method for lightweight strength optimization when using dissimilar materials is proposed by applying topology optimization and a design-of-experiment (DOE) to a seat-cushion frame with typical steel. Static analysis of the seat-cushion frame was performed by applying the appropriate safety standards for each passenger. The authors performed topology optimization of the seat-cushion, which was subjected to static analysis and confirmed that the method can be applied to dissimilar materials according to their density ratio as well as the strength of the cushion frame, which was made with dissimilar materials. The strength of the cushion frame made of dissimilar materials is improved compared to the seat-cushion frame made of typical steel. It was also confirmed that the application ratio of the dissimilar materials and the optimization of the application ratio of a dissimilar ratio and the thickness of each material using the DOE can improve the strength of the cushion frame and reduce the weight.