Analysis of Optimization for 3D Printed Carbon Fiber Pi-Joints
Faculty Mentor
Hossein Taheri
Location
Russell Union Ballroom
Type of Research
On-going
Session Format
Poster Presentation
College
Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering & Computing
Department
Manufacturing Enigneering
Abstract
Carbon fiber reinforced PLA Pi-joints are increasingly considered for lightweight structural applications due to their favorable stiffness-to-weight characteristics and geometric adaptability through 3D printing. However, the complex flange-web geometry of Pi-joints introduces stress concentrations and anisotropic behavior that require advanced modeling to predict performance accurately. This study integrates finite element analysis and structural optimization using Infinitform to evaluate and improve the mechanical response of 3D-printed PLA Carbon Fiber Pi-joints.
A parametric Pi-joint model was developed to simulate loading conditions representative of structural service environments. Material properties reflecting the anisotropic behavior of carbon fiber reinforced polymers were incorporated into the finite element framework. Infinitform was utilized to perform stress distribution analysis, identify critical regions of strain concentration, and optimize geometric features including flange thickness, web height, and transition radii.
The optimization process aimed to reduce peak stress while maintaining structural stiffness and minimizing material usage. Comparative simulations between baseline and optimized geometries demonstrated improved load distribution across the flange-web interface and a reduction in stress concentration factors. The results highlight the importance of coupling additive manufacturing design with computational optimization tools to enhance structural efficiency.
This work demonstrates how Infinitform finite element optimization can inform the design of 3D-printed PLA Carbon Fiber Pi-joints, providing a pathway toward more reliable and weight-efficient composite structures for advanced engineering applications.
Program Description
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Start Date
4-23-2026 2:00 PM
End Date
4-23-2026 4:00 PM
Recommended Citation
Purvis, Ina G., "Analysis of Optimization for 3D Printed Carbon Fiber Pi-Joints" (2026). GS4 Student Scholars Symposium. 216.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/research_symposium/2026/2026/216
Analysis of Optimization for 3D Printed Carbon Fiber Pi-Joints
Russell Union Ballroom
Carbon fiber reinforced PLA Pi-joints are increasingly considered for lightweight structural applications due to their favorable stiffness-to-weight characteristics and geometric adaptability through 3D printing. However, the complex flange-web geometry of Pi-joints introduces stress concentrations and anisotropic behavior that require advanced modeling to predict performance accurately. This study integrates finite element analysis and structural optimization using Infinitform to evaluate and improve the mechanical response of 3D-printed PLA Carbon Fiber Pi-joints.
A parametric Pi-joint model was developed to simulate loading conditions representative of structural service environments. Material properties reflecting the anisotropic behavior of carbon fiber reinforced polymers were incorporated into the finite element framework. Infinitform was utilized to perform stress distribution analysis, identify critical regions of strain concentration, and optimize geometric features including flange thickness, web height, and transition radii.
The optimization process aimed to reduce peak stress while maintaining structural stiffness and minimizing material usage. Comparative simulations between baseline and optimized geometries demonstrated improved load distribution across the flange-web interface and a reduction in stress concentration factors. The results highlight the importance of coupling additive manufacturing design with computational optimization tools to enhance structural efficiency.
This work demonstrates how Infinitform finite element optimization can inform the design of 3D-printed PLA Carbon Fiber Pi-joints, providing a pathway toward more reliable and weight-efficient composite structures for advanced engineering applications.
