Development of a Bike Component by Topological Optimization Methods

Abstract:

The article introduces the design of a frame element of a Giant AC bicycle manufactured in 2003. The development work focuses on the component connecting the spring and the rear swingarms. The process is assisted by the tools of the discursive design approach and the simulation-driven design method. The component in the case study was designed by the usage of the tools of the given time, when diverse design software and affordable high-capacity computers were not yet available. Nowadays, iCAD design systems support engineering work with appropriate CAE target software, which allows the examination of virtual prototypes with adequate accuracy. The concept-forming properties of topological optimization (TO) and generative design (GD) fit into the discursive design approach and provide effective solutions in an increasing number of fields of application. The simulation-driven design process in this article is executed in Siemens NX 2506 software. The case study details the steps of the development process. It presents a kinematic description of the investigated component for several purposes. In the generation phase, the creation of solutions was influenced by various aspects, such as the starting geometries, the raw materials that can be used, and the manufacturing technologies that can be matched with them. A technical value analysis is executed for the different solutions, which aims to help the selection of the best design. The scope of use of the bicycle is close to competitive sports, therefore, the weight of the component is an important aspect in case of value analysis. The article introduces a comparison of the original component and the one produced by using modern methods and summarizes the achieved results.

• Periodical: Advances in Science and Technology (Volume 181)
• Pages: 117-125
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-Cbp9wA
• Online since: August 2026
• Authors: Kristóf Szabó*
• Keywords: Bike Component, Generative Design, Product Design, Product Development, Topological Optimization

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