Generative Design in the Transmission System of a Skateboard

Generative design (GD) is a new way of designing products that respond to the current characteristics of the 4.0 industry era. It allows the customization of designs and helps to minimize process times and material quantities. In the case study, two parts of the transmission system of a skateboard have been designed using GD of Solid Edge ST10. The design has been customized for 67 kg users who will use the skateboard for riding and not for jumping or doing tricks. On the other hand, the aim was to minimize the weight and the use of material for its manufacture. Once the initial solid is defined, the software generates specific designs for different levels of mass reduction or product quality. An axle with a mass reduction of 70% from the initial solid and a base with reduction of 60% have been proposed. The GD more than an alternative is a requirement to respond to the demands of the 4.0 industry in which customization and cost reduction are one of the fundamental pillars. This type of design, at the same time, forces to adapt the manufacturing processes so that it is necessary to manufacture in additive manufacturing (AM) machines.