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Research

What We're Working On

Research Focus Area

Topology Optimization of Multibody Systems Undergoing Dynamic Loading Using an Equivalent Static Displacement Method

This focus builds on established physics-based modeling and simulation while intentionally extending toward AI-assisted topology optimization frameworks. Students explore how traditional finite element–based methods can be augmented with machine learning to accelerate design exploration and support next-generation mechanical design decisions.

The work emphasizes responsible, validated, engineering-driven use of AI — mirroring how industry is adopting AI in structural optimization, lightweighting, and efficiency-driven design.

2026 Project

Development of an ESD-Based Topology Optimization Method Incorporating Multi-Load Cases and Engine Duty Cycles

The research goal is to extend the existing Equivalent Static Displacement (ESD)-based topology optimization framework to incorporate:

  • Multi-Load Case Integration — Weighted objective functions across representative load cases.
  • Duty-Cycle Weighting — Real-world Cummins engine duty cycles inform design decisions.
  • AI / ML Refinement — PINNs and surrogate modeling for topology refinement concepts.

Student Role Structure

Skye Warren
Piston Analysis Lead
  • Piston geometry setup
  • Piston loading conditions
  • Multi-load & duty-cycle implementation
  • ESD-based TO analysis & results

Teagan Bensheimer
Connecting Rod Analysis Lead

  • Connecting rod geometry setup
  • Connecting rod loading conditions
  • Multi-load & duty-cycle implementation
  • ESD-based TO analysis & results
Shared responsibilities

Both students learn the full ESD methodology, participate in all discussions, review literature, conduct FEA, help with AI integration, and contribute to paper writing and the final presentation.

The 8-Week Research Plan

Week 1 — Program Kickoff + Research Foundations
  • Introductions, expectations, research process & ethics, software setup (ANSYS + AI tools), and a live FEA demo session.
Week 2 — Literature Review + Methodology
  • ESD method fundamentals, multi-load case TO, engine duty-cycle fundamentals, and AI-assisted literature synthesis.
Week 3 — Baseline Modeling & Validation
  • Geometry & meshing, baseline FEA validation, and a research documentation workshop. Deliverable: baseline validation report.
Week 4 — Initial ESD-Based TO Implementation
  • Equivalent displacement extraction, static equivalent loads, baseline TO runs, and a midpoint research review.
Week 5 — Multi-Load Case Integration
  • Representative load cases, weighting methodology, combined ESD strategy, and single- vs multi-load comparative analysis.
Week 6 — Duty Cycle Integration + AI/ML Exploration
  • Weighted duty-cycle loading, plus an exploratory module on PINNs, AI-assisted refinement, and surrogate modeling in CAE.
Week 7 — Paper Writing + Presentation Development
  • Draft paper sections, build professional figures & animations, presentation coaching, and Mock Presentation #1.
Week 8 — Finalization + Final Research Showcase
  • Final rehearsal, report & paper submission prep, and the Final Research Showcase for faculty, administrators, and industry partners.