A graphic way for notch shape optimization

Abstract

Many components have notches and notches are in the majority of cases the reason for failure. There are many options to reach a longer lifetime and a better utilisation of material. One method for the shape optimization of components, developed in Forschungszentrum Karlsruhe, uses the design rules of nature. During the last 15 years it has spread very well and proven itself in industry, especially in automotive engineering. The limits for using the CAO-method (Computer Aided Optimization) are more or less of an economic nature. So we need a method that allows optimization by everybody. Now a new pure graphical method has been found, which works without any FEM or optimization software. It is called the "Method of Tensile Triangles" and requires only a set square and a piece of paper to optimize the notch shape in an effective and simple way.