Novel 3D winding structures for lightweight, cost-sensitive structural components

In the HyTo3D research project, a novel concept for efficient and load-related structures will be developed by the hybridization of short-fiber reinforced thermoplastic with local, thermoset continuous-fiber reinforcement. Interactively, a special method for the design of these structures will be developed based on an extended approach for topology optimization, enabling structural components with the highest strength and stiffness while using the least mass, as well as being cost-effective and suitable for large-scale production.

In order to develop and improve the manufacturing process and the topology optimization, various demonstrators will be manufactured during the project (2D- and 3Ddemonstrators). As the complexity of the test specimens and  demonstrators increase, the manufacturing process and the topology optimization will be validated and continuously developed during the project. Demonstrators reinforced based on isotropic, single-phase topology optimizers provide the reference for evaluating the developments.

The project “HyTo3D” – Process for hybrid production and topology optimization of overmolded 3D winding structures for lightweight, cost-sensitive structural components” is funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) – Funding Reference 550248900.