Example, FEA analysis of design a problem

Initial design
Square post on round base
No webs, 2 kN force
Δ ~ 2 mm deflection
σ ~ 64 N/mm2 at base of post

Proposed design
4 curved webs, from corner of square post
4 bolts with bosses at end of webs.
Δ ~ 0.1 mm deflection, σ ~ 10 N/mm2

This design is light, elegant and offers

potentially good fatigue condition for the bolts
1
Worse design, posts welded to flat faces
Δ ~ 0.5 mm deflection, σ ~ 30 N/mm2

2
Most elaborate design,
2 webs welded to each corner, 8 bolts
Δ ~ 0.19 mm deflection, σ ~ 30 N/mm2

3
4 straight webs, from corner of square
post, 8 bolts near webs.
Δ ~ 0.2 mm deflection, σ ~ 20 N/
mm2

4
5
6