Topology optimization of UAV structure based on homogenization of honeycomb core

Abstract

In this paper, a new optimization design strategy is explored to achieve a rapid design of lightweight structures for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) using honeycomb sandwich panels. Based on the existing performance equivalent method of honeycomb core material, an effective mechanical property homogenization model of honeycomb material is proposed and applied to finite element analysis. A finite element model is established to analyze the mechanical response of honeycomb sandwich panels under different bending loads, and the rationality of the model is verified by mechanical tests. The error between the simulation results and the experimental results is about 10%. Based on the variable density method and rational approximation of material properties interpolation method, a topology optimization model with the minimum structural flexibility as the objective is constructed. By comparing with the experiment-based design scheme, it is found that the optimized design scheme has a more reasonable structure and better performance. The optimized design can effectively reduce the structural weight and improve the load transfer path while ensuring structural stiffness. In this way, the influence of stress concentration and large deformation on the structure is avoided, which is of great significance for the design of UAV structures.