A review of topology optimization for additive manufacturing: Status and challenges

Abstract

Topology optimization was developed as an advanced structural design methodology to generate innovative lightweight and high-performance configurations that are difficult to obtain with conventional ideas. Additive manufacturing is an advanced manufacturing technique building as-designed structures via layer-by-layer joining material, providing an alternative pattern for complex components. The integration of topology optimization and additive manufacturing can make the most of their advantages and potentials, and has wide application prospects in modern manufacturing. This article reviews the main content and applications of the research on the integration of topology optimization and additive manufacturing in recent years, including multi-scale or hierarchical structural optimization design and topology optimization considering additive manufacturing constraints. Meanwhile, some challenges of structural design approaches for additive manufacturing are discussed, such as the performance characterization and scale effects of additively manufactured lattice structures, the anisotropy and fatigue performance of additively manufactured material, and additively manufactured functionally graded material issues, etc. It is shown that in the research of topology optimization for additive manufacturing, the integration of material, structure, process and performance is important to pursue high-performance, multi-functional and lightweight production. This article provides a reference for further related research and aerospace applications.