Topology optimization for multi-layer multi-material composite structures

Abstract

This article investigates topology optimization of multi-layer multi-material composite structures under static loading. A moving iso-surface threshold optimization method, previously well defined for single or cellular materials, is extended to multi-layer multi-material structures using a physical response function discrepancy scheme. It is also integrated with an alternating active-phase algorithm as an alternative procedure. The proposed methods are applied to three types of objective functions, namely, minimizing compliance, maximizing mutual strain energy and minimizing full-stress designs. The corresponding response functions relevant to each optimization problem according to the proposed topology optimization methods are strain energy density, mutual strain energy density and von Mises stress, respectively. Examples are presented and compared with those available in the literature to verify the derived formulations on topology optimization for multi-layer multi-material structures.

Highlights

• Optimization by integrating MIST with alternating active phase for multi-materials

• Extended MIST to topology optimization for multi-layer and multi-materials

• Multimaterial design to maximize mutual energy, minimize compliance and full stress

KEYWORDS:

• Multi-material design
• multi-layer structure
• topology optimization

Acknowledgements

The authors are grateful for the support of the Australian Research Council via Discovery-Project grants [DP210101353].

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Data availability statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author (Q. L.) upon reasonable request.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Australian Research Council [grant number DP210101353].