Designing the First Bus Using Generative Design and Digital Manufacturing

Lúcid has started the year with many new challenges on the table. One of them is the launch of a new project where generative design and digital manufacturing will take center stage.

The project, made possible thanks to support from CDTI, has a value of 1.1 million euros and will be developed in collaboration with a renowned company in the automotive sector.

The main goal of the project is to revolutionize the construction system of bus chassis, shifting from welded iron profiles to carbon fiber tubes incorporating 3D-printed nodes.

This approach would redefine both the manufacturing process and the construction system of buses to optimize structural weight, costs, and production time. The project will span 12 to 18 months, divided into 8 development phases to achieve all set objectives.

The process will be developed for a renowned company in the automotive sector and will incorporate various specialized partners, including a well-known international printing firm.  

What is Generative Design, and What Opportunities Does It Offer?

Generative design enables the creation of 3D components using software that provides multiple design options, each with specific parameters. This allows for selecting the most suitable option based on the client's needs and aspirations.

Thanks to generative design, both designers and engineers can explore different design possibilities concerning weight, material usage, and manufacturing processes. This shift allows engineers to focus on design requirements rather than production constraints.

‍DigitalManufacturing: A Necessary Next Step to Optimize the Design Process

In this project, Lúcid will complement generative design with digital manufacturing. Digital manufacturing, also known as 'digital manufacturing,' leverages technology to optimize the production process.

Integrating all equipment involved in manufacturing allows for greater control over production, reducing unforeseen issues, shortening lead times, and improving overall productivity.

Generative Design: A World of Advantages for the Design Industry

The implementation of generative design brings numerous benefits.  

Design freedom and the ability to create products from scratch allow designers to explore genuinely innovative design lines.

Additionally, this technology reduces production costs by continuously optimizing materials, structures, and processes, potentially lowering costs by up to 50%.

Regarding sustainability, generative design promotes the use of sustainable materials while reducing product weight, enabling the creation of lighter and more innovative designs.

Generative design and digital manufacturing still have a long way to go in today's industries. There are numerous potential applications across all sectors in product design and manufacturing.

This is the first commercial chair manufactured using generative design. Philippe Starck collaborated with an algorithm to design the chair, which will soon be available for sale.
Autodesk collaborates with Volkswagen Group in the generative design of electric concept vehicles. Generative design was applied to the wheels, achieving an 18% weight reduction. Credit: Volkswagen.
Generative design helped Under Armour manufacture its first 3D-printed training shoe.

Are you interested in learning how to leverage this technology for your products or industry? Contact us without obligation, and let's explore all the possibilities together!