Topology Optimal Design of a Frame Structure subject to Impact Loads

摘要

In this paper a topology optimization algorithm of a space frame structure subject to impact loads is presented. In the algorithm a grand structure composed of pipe members is assumed and the diameters of the members are determined so that an objective function based on the external work may be minimal. The linear beam element, which is known to be robust, is employed in the crash analysis with the explicit time integration scheme. To save the computational time, a plastic flow rule for the resultant forces is employed. The sensitivity analysis is conducted numerically using the history of nodal displacements and the design variables: the diameters of the members are updated with the CONLIN method. Through several numerical examples it was shown that the present method is used to design a frame structure which has the largest or a specified amount of energy absorption capacity.