Topology Optimization Using Structural Discrete Elements

Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) has been successfully utilized in mechanical industries, but few CAE tools that include structural optimization can be utilized at the conceptual design phase, since the development of such tools has been based on continuum mechanics that limit the provision of usefu...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inTransactions of the Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers Series C Vol. 70; no. 692; pp. 1008 - 1015
Main Authors TAKEZAWA, Akihiro, NISHIWAKI, Shinji, IZUI, Kazuhiro, YOSHIMURA, Masataka, NISHIGAKI, Hidekazu, TSURUMI, Yasuaki
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Japanese
Published The Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers 2004
Subjects
Computer Aided Engineering
Design Engineering
Framed Structure
Optimum Design
Sensitivity Analysis
Structural Analysis
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Summary:Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) has been successfully utilized in mechanical industries, but few CAE tools that include structural optimization can be utilized at the conceptual design phase, since the development of such tools has been based on continuum mechanics that limit the provision of useful design suggestions at this phase. In order to mitigate this problem, a new type of CAE based on classical structural mechanics, First Order Analysis (FOA), is proposed. In this paper, we present a topology optimization method that corresponds to FOA concepts. This optimization method is constructed, based on discrete and function-oriented elements such as frame, panel and spring elements, and sequential convex programming. In addition, examples are provided to show the utility of the methodology presented here for mechanical design engineers.
ISSN:0387-5024
1884-8354
DOI:10.1299/kikaic.70.1008