A planet carrier with double-walls-integral structural is optimized and designed for lightening its weight and improving its strength and stiffness.Firstly

a parametric model for the planet carrier is established by means of APDL language

the meshing stiffness between the internal and external gear pairs and support stiffness of bearing are calculated and then the carrier strength and structure parameter sensitivity is analyzed.Secondly

amathematical model of the topology optimization for the planet carrieris established

in which the minimum compliance is as the objective function

the density of the material as a design variable and the volume fraction as constraints condition. Finally

the structure topology optimization for the planet carrier is conducted using Hyperworks analysis platform. Based on the material distribution

the conceptual model is obtained

from that the optimal structural of the planet carrier is designed.Comparing the performance of the new design one with the original

itis shown that the stress amplitude is reduced to 8.74%

the weight to 17.34%

while the stiffness stays invariable.The purposed of the optimization design is achieved.