Multi-domain topology optimization for vehicle substructure design

Zheng Dong Ma, Noboru Kikuchi, Christophe Pierre, Basavaraju Raju

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

12 Scopus citations

Abstract

Topology optimization of a structure is generally considered as a problem of optimum material distribution (OMD) within a given structural domain, subject to a given amount of material and to boundary conditions and loading conditions applied to the structure. The effective design of a complex engineering structure, however, may require controllability over how the material should be distributed among the various subdomains of the structure, as well as even the use of different materials for the different subdomains. A multi-domain topology optimization technique is therefore proposed in this paper, which is based upon the homogenization method, and which employs a generalized Sequential Approximation Optimization (GSAO) algorithm. This algorithm enhances the capabilities of current topology optimization methods by using advanced updating rules and providing additional flexibility in the optimization process, thus resulting in improved convergence and higher computational efficiency. A Component Mode Synthesis method is also employed, which can significantly reduce the number of degrees of freedom associated with the subdomains whose designs are fixed at the current stage. Several example design problems are considered, including a "structure-fixture simultaneous design" problem, a "functionally graded material design" problem, a "crush energy management" problem, and a "truck frame design" problem that illustrates how the technique developed can be applied to real vehicle substructure design problems.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationDesign Engineering
Pages12-20
Number of pages9
DOIs
StatePublished - 2002

Publication series

NameASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition, Proceedings

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