Topology optimization of geometrically nonlinear structures using an evolutionary optimization method

Abdi, Meisam; Ashcroft, Ian; Wildman, Ricky

Abstract

Iso-XFEM method is an evolutionary optimization method developed in our previous studies to enable the generation of high resolution topology optimised designs suitable for additive manufacture. Conventional approaches for topology optimization require additional post-processing after optimization to generate a manufacturable topology with clearly defined smooth boundaries. Iso-XFEM aims to eliminate this time-consuming post-processing stage by defining the boundaries using isovalues of a structural performance criterion and an extended finite element method (XFEM) scheme. In this paper, the Iso-XFEM method is further developed to enable the topology optimization of geometrically nonlinear structures undergoing large deformations. This is achieved by implementing a total Lagrangian finite element formulation and defining a structural performance criterion appropriate for the objective function of the optimization problem. The Iso-XFEM solutions for geometrically nonlinear test-cases implementing linear and nonlinear modelling are compared, and the suitability of nonlinear modelling for the topology optimization of geometrically nonlinear structures is investigated.

Citation

Abdi, M., Ashcroft, I., & Wildman, R. (in press). Topology optimization of geometrically nonlinear structures using an evolutionary optimization method. Engineering Optimization, https://doi.org/10.1080/0305215X.2017.1418864

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Nov 22, 2017
• Online Publication Date: Jan 19, 2018
• Deposit Date: Jan 8, 2018
• Publicly Available Date: Jan 19, 2018
• Journal: Engineering Optimization
• Print ISSN: 0305-215X
• Electronic ISSN: 1029-0273
• Publisher: Taylor and Francis
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/0305215X.2017.1418864
• Keywords: Topology optimization; XFEM; Geometrically nonlinear; Evolutionary; Mesh refinement
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/905752
• Publisher URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/0305215X.2017.1418864
• Contract Date: Jan 8, 2018