3 Unit Cube-Sat Mass Reduction Using Topology Optimization

Abstract

This study aims to Design and perform Finite element Analysis under the static load of a solid 3U cube structure. an evaluation of the critical loads affecting the structure during launching will be conducted to help re-design a topologized structure designed for additive manufacturing. The development of the structure's design was performed using SolidWorks, while the analysis was performed with both SolidWorks simulations and Fusion 360. The study shows the effect on the structure during the launching phase and promising results for the topology optimization approach's effectiveness as it gave an initial mass reduction of 40% that can be archived by focusing on the stress point while generating the new design even though the analysis was done using the same material, it is expected that with the material change the percentage of the original mass will drop by a higher percentage.