Optimal design of machine tool bed by load bearing topology identification with weight distribution criterion

This paper attempts to develop a simple and practical procedure for the optimal design of machine tool bed. In this research, a simplified model is first defined to characterize the bed structure. The load bearing topology of the bed structure is then identified to represent the optimal layout of the inner stiffener plates. Subsequently, detailed sizing optimization is conducted by using a novel criterion which describes the best solution in terms of weight distribution of both the outer supporting panels and inner stiffener plates. Finally, calculation results are elaborated to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.