An approach to computational solution for the optimal design of materials and topology of 2D and 3D continuum structures

摘要

This paper deals with the computational solution of problems in the optimal design of continuum structures, according to a formulation where the design variable is the unrestricted tensor field of material properties and where the argument of the cost constraint is expressed in a general form. The function and use of an algorithm for this task are described and a variety of solutions for design problems in 2D and 3D are presented. The behavior of this system is explained both for determination of the optimal continuously-varying material properties, and for subsequent solution to predict a form of zero-one topology design. So the basic model for structural optimization and its method of treatment for computation provides a possible alternative to the commonly used approach to the problem, namely those using homogenization-based model for interpretation of the continuum structure.