Exporting the optimized model

After you complete your adjustments to the topology optimization results, you can export the model in either or both of the following formats:

• STL file

• Nastran BDF file

These files are created in the same folder as the Simulation file and are named using the format [simulation_file_name]-[solution_name].[ext]. You can subsequently import the STL file into the Modeling application or import the BDF file into Pre/Post to use as a guide for creating a new part.

Both files reflect only the exterior of the FE model. The STL file uses facets and the BDF file uses shell elements. When you import a BDF file, you can use Pre/Post commands to create a polygon body with multiple faces. You can then perform further analyses and ultimately create a convergent body that you can use with Modeling.

The appearance of the imported model varies, depending on whether you enabled smoothing before you exported the model.

Raw imported STL file	Smoothed imported STL file

Note:

When you import an STL file, set Minimum Facet Number to 1 in the STL Import dialog box. Otherwise, the imported model might not include all of the facets in the optimized model.

Optimization spreadsheet

In addition to exporting an optimized model, you can generate a comma-separated values (CSV) file named [simulation_file_name]-[solution_name].csv that indicates the material density value for each element in your model. This file also includes the lattice structure type and the lower boundary for the material density values for the solid and lattice areas. Materialise 3-matic software can use this CSV file in conjunction with an STL file to generate a 3D lattice representation.

How do I

Create an optimization spreadsheet

Plot the material density results

Create a verification solution

Export the optimized model

Learn more

Optimization spreadsheet

Topology optimization post-processing results

Plotting the material density results

Verification solutions

Adjusting and smoothing the material density

Quick links

Command reference

Pre/Post video examples

Bulk Entry Descriptions

Simcenter 3D tutorials

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Exporting the optimized model, Simcenter 3D 2021.1 Series

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