Optimized 3D Printed Composite Pi-Joint Design Through Multi-Axial Load Analysis
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
Mechanical Engineering
Abstract
Lightweight structural pi-joints used in aerospace and advanced mechanical systems must effectively transfer loads such as bending, shear, torsional, and fatigue while maintaining high stiffness, high durability, and cost-efficient production.
Structural Pi joints are subjected to a multitude of combined forces and loads that are often governed by inefficient load transfer and excessive material usage. The following study demonstrates the design and optimization of a carbon fiber composite pi-joint that is subjected to different forces and loads. A load path-driven design approach was constructed while using topology optimization with structural analysis to minimize material while keeping stiffness and structural integrity. The Pi-joint was created using 3D printing as a more cost-effective and time-saving alternative to the traditional Pi joint. This work demonstrates the practical value of topology-driven optimization in the composite pi joint that provides transferable design guidelines for industry 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
Tomas Santizo, Milton M. and Gunningham, Weston B., "Optimized 3D Printed Composite Pi-Joint Design Through Multi-Axial Load Analysis" (2026). GS4 Student Scholars Symposium. 265.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/research_symposium/2026/2026/265
Optimized 3D Printed Composite Pi-Joint Design Through Multi-Axial Load Analysis
Russell Union Ballroom
Lightweight structural pi-joints used in aerospace and advanced mechanical systems must effectively transfer loads such as bending, shear, torsional, and fatigue while maintaining high stiffness, high durability, and cost-efficient production.
Structural Pi joints are subjected to a multitude of combined forces and loads that are often governed by inefficient load transfer and excessive material usage. The following study demonstrates the design and optimization of a carbon fiber composite pi-joint that is subjected to different forces and loads. A load path-driven design approach was constructed while using topology optimization with structural analysis to minimize material while keeping stiffness and structural integrity. The Pi-joint was created using 3D printing as a more cost-effective and time-saving alternative to the traditional Pi joint. This work demonstrates the practical value of topology-driven optimization in the composite pi joint that provides transferable design guidelines for industry applications
