Minimum-Weight Truss Reinforcement of a Composite Beam to Increase the Free-Vibrations Fundamental Eigenfrequency

In this contribution, we design a minimum-weight truss reinforcement of a thin-walled composite beam, such that the fundamental free-vibrations eigenfrequency of the beam is increased to a specific value. The reinforcement structure is designed using techniques of topology optimization and produced using additive manufacturing, in order to achieve economical design and minimize manual interventions in the fabrication process. Finally, an experimental validation of theoretical outcomes is performed on an additively manufactured prototype.