Lightweight Design

The primary requirement of a structure made from lightweight materials is functionality. Stress levels must be kept within given limits and demands for rigidity, robustness, dynamic flexibility, resistance to temperature and durability must be fulfilled. Lightweight structures have to be capable of all this and have an optimum weight at the same.

In order to meet the functional requirements of components as well as optimize their weight, certain challenges need to be overcome which are often associated with extensive additional design and financial efforts. Despite this, the advantages of using lightweight materials and concepts in production equipment outweigh the disadvantages, particularly due to the fact that technological characteristics can be improved.

For example, the dynamics of moving components in manufacturing machines, assembly systems and other production aids can be enhanced by reducing their weight. This not only improves performance but also lowers energy consumption. Additionally, by implementing fiber composites, system damping and thermal properties are improved as well as the overall efficiency of manufacturing equipment.