DMG MORI Redesigns Robotic End-Effector using Topology Optimization & Reusable Workflows

Since the engineers could not alter the external form of the part, the results of topology optimization could not be used directly as the final design. However, they could be used to vary the thickness of the outer shell. This process helped the team to grasp some of the structural benefits of topology optimization without changing the part’s exterior. The engineers of DMG MORI filled the shell with a conformal lattice to increase the stiffness of the part and create a permanent support structure for additive manufacturing. The team used nTopology’s engineering simulation capabilities to rapidly iterate between the available options and select a suitable lattice design. Instead of creating a one-off design, the engineers of DMG MORI developed a robust and reusable optimization process. Using as input the color-coded surfaces of each subsystem of the imported CAD file, the nTop workflow that the team developed can automatically rerun — even if the geometry changes due to design iterations or future projects.