Optimal design approach for eco-efficient machine tool bed

An optimal design approach of machine tool bed with the aim of obtaining an eco-efficient machine structure is studied. The suggested method includes three phases. The first is the layout design optimization of stiffener plates inside bed. In order to improve the design efficiency, a simplified design model called fiber model is suggested, and the layout of the stiffener plates inside bed is optimized by changing a 3-dimensional topology design optimization problem to a 2-dimensional problem. The second is the detailed sizing optimization of stiffener plates and supporting blocks under the structure based on the initial optimal model resulted from phase one. Finally, a topology design optimization process is implemented to obtain a reasonable distribution of manufacturing holes in bed structure. By considering the manufacturing requirement, an optimal bed structure is obtained. The validity of the suggested method is confirmed by a typical cylindrical grinding machine tool bed, and the result shows that the suggested method is effective, and the optimal structure has much better mechanical and economical performance by comparing with the original structures.