[ericsg]

Hi all,

Quick question for a project that needs a very simple load setup that I'm unsure about.

I am trying to apply topology optimization to lightweight a part (basically a wrench with a bearing housing on either end) that is pulled in tension on one end and fixed/mounted on the other end. Setting up the static analysis, I am basing my force vectors as the average yield strength value found in an E8 tensile test. I can't place an equal force on either end for a pin-pin condition due to the rigid body motion, so I am fixing on one end and applying the force vector only to the other end as a bearing load. In that case, would I use the full yield strength value as a max load? Or should I be doubling that value to compensate for it being a force in only one direction?

FWIW, the part is symmetrical so I'll be cutting off half and then mirroring the topology optimized part afterwards.

Thanks!

[evcelica]

Basic Statics, the very first engineering class.
Draw a Free Body Diagram. Sum the forces and moments to zero.
What is the reaction at the fixed support if there is zero net force on the body for it to be static?