Parametric Modeling Method for Truss Structures

This paper presents a parametric modeling method to create truss structures to enhance a part’s mechanical and/or dynamic properties. The main idea behind this method is to replace thick part sections with thinner sections that are reinforced by truss structure. Computational methods are presented to create truss structures that conform to a part’s shape. The methods utilize Bezier surfaces to approximate the part surface and to create the truss structure. Truss topologies can be created for a two-dimensional truss, a three-dimensional truss for single volume and a three-dimensional truss for multiple volumes. The decomposition of the part surfaces, the construction of approximating Bezier surfaces, and solid modeling of the truss structures are also shown. An example is presented to demonstrate the utility of conformal truss structures for a large part from the aerospace industry.