Lotus F1 – Abaqus Topology Optimization

TruForm for Abaqus

GRM Consulting, now TriMech Simulation Solutions, is a developer and provider of CAE based design optimization methods with a specific drive to bring optimization technologies to everyday design engineering.

TruForm for Abaqus is a Topology optimization tool designed to work directly with existing analysis model data directly within your Abaqus environment. Available either embedded within Abaqus/CAE or as a standalone tool, TruForm utilizes the industry standard optimization code Genesis to identify optimal designs, reduce current part mass or resolve design issues in a minimal solution time.

By taking advantage of the Genesis solver, TruForm can develop optimum solutions in considerably less time than other tools available in the Abaqus domain, allowing optimization to fit seamlessly into the daily design and analysis process.

Lotus F1 Rocker Arm Case Study

Whilst optimization is commonly considered as a tool to identify new concept designs, the Lotus F1 Team found the easy application of TruForm to detailed Abaqus models of mature designs an excellent opportunity to achieve relatively small, but significant mass savings on components in their race cars.

One such example was a suspension rocker arm, which was at the latter stages of design where analysis sign off was being performed. With the need to verify the structural performance for 9 individual load cases, the rocker arms are assembled into a detailed Abaqus model comprising of complex preloading conditions, contacts and the interaction to the complete rocker assembly.

With no change to the Abaqus analysis model, a TruForm optimization was performed overnight, which readily identified several areas of the component where radii could be increased and weight reducing holes could be included.

What Happened to GRM Consulting?

GRM Consulting Ltd was acquired by the Solid Solutions Group in 2023 and subsequently became part of the larger TriMech Group.

As of April 2024, the GRM team are now part of the new TriMech Simulation Services team, alongside experts from Solid Solutions.

This transition marks a pivotal moment in GRM’s journey as they continue to expand their capabilities and offerings to better serve your needs. TriMech’s Simulation Solutions team is dedicated to the development and application of design optimisation methodologies to solve complex engineering problems in the most efficient and cost-effective way.

Find out more.