2026 Symposium Archive (Statesboro)
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
.
Start Date
4-23-2026 2:00 PM
End Date
4-23-2026 4:00 PM
Copyright
This work is archived and distributed under the repository's Standard Copyright and Reuse License (opens in new tab). End users may copy, store, and distribute this work without restriction. For all other uses, permission must be obtained from the copyright owners or their authorized agents.
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
