Topology Optimization Study of Airplane Controls Console

The article presents a study on topology optimization applied on an aluminium alloy airplane controls console to save the weight. The weight is one of the crucial factors of airplane structures affecting their efficiency, payload, performance, and costs. The article introduces to topology optimization as a SW tool to redistribute the part material yet enabling to carry the applied load. First, it is analysed the load acting on the console during airplane flight and ground operations as well. Next, the most crucial load is applied on the console under topology optimization procedure using the SW Ansys Workbench 2020. The differential influence of load cases is considered using the weight function reflecting the load occurrence. The optimized console shape is finally modified using the SW Autodesk Inventor to achieve the stiffness and strength of the origin console. Achieved reduction of the console weight is 11%. The final console shape is possible to produce using conventional or additive technologies. The article gives the recommendations for further development.