Space Frame Integrated Design System based on PATRAN Database

PATRAN 데이타베이스를 기반으로 한 스페이스 프레임의 통합설계시스템

To design a space frame structure by the conventional method is not easy in practical sense since it is generally a three-dimensional complicated form, and stability and nonlinear problems are not easily checked in the design process. This paper describes two modules, the Model Generator which is based on PATRAN user interface that enables users to generate a complicated finite element model; the Optimum Design Module which analyzes output results of analysis program, and designs members of a space frame. The Model Generator is based on PCL while C++ language is used in the Optimum Design Module. Structural analysis is performed by using ABAQUS. All of these modules constitute Space Frame Integrated Design System. The Core of the system is PATRAN database, in which the Model Generator creates information of a finite element model. Then, PATRAN creates input files needed for the analysis program from the information of the finite element model in the database, and in turn, imports output results of analysis program to the database. Finally, the Optimum Design Module processes member grouping of a space frame based on the output results, and performs optimal member selection of a space frame. This process is repeated until the desired optimum structural members are obtained.