RBF Morph is pleased to present a thesis by Matteo Bisin, University of Rome Tor Vergata, that highlights the advanced capabilities of our technology in the field of structural optimization: “Structural Optimization of an Automotive Wheel Rim Using the BGM Method.” This thesis focuses on the optimization of a real aluminum alloy wheel rim provided by Nissan, conducted under strict design constraints following the industry’s Design-First paradigm. The work was developed using Ansys Workbench, Ansys Mechanical, and RBF Morph.

The optimization process was structured in two stages. First, mesh morphing was used to reduce the mass of the rim without compromising the mesh topology. This was made possible through RBF Morph’s ability to apply smooth and controlled geometric deformations. Second, the Biological Growth Method (BGM) was implemented to improve the stress distribution across the component. This method, inspired by natural growth mechanisms, was integrated through RBF Morph to iteratively reshape the geometry based on FEM simulation results. Key outcomes of the project include a mass reduction of 1.35% compared to the original configuration, with a controlled increase in stress of less than 4%. Most importantly, the original design style was preserved, a fundamental requirement in the automotive sector.

This work demonstrates the effectiveness of RBF Morph not only in traditional morphing applications but also in advanced optimization strategies where iterative, simulation-driven shape evolution is essential.

The full thesis and the presentation are now available for review.