Abstract

This paper is focused on the development of a Cellular Automata algorithm with the refined mesh adaptation technique and the implementation of this algorithm in topology optimization problems. Traditionally, a Cellular Automaton is created based on regular discretization of the design domain into a lattice of cells, the states of which are updated by applying simple local rules. It is expected that during the topology optimization process the local rules responsible for the evaluation of cell states can drive the solution to solid/void resulting structures. In the proposed approach, the finite elements are equivalent to cells of an automaton and the states of cells are represented by design variables. While optimizing engineering structural elements, the important issue is to obtain well-defined solutions: in particular, topologies with smooth boundaries. The quality of the structural topology boundaries depends on the resolution level of mesh discretization: the greater the number of elements in the mesh, the better the representation of the optimized structure. However, the use of fine meshes implies a high computational cost. We propose, therefore, an adaptive way to refine the mesh. This allowed us to reduce the number of design variables without losing the accuracy of results and without an excessive increase in the number of elements caused by use of a fine mesh for a whole structure. In particular, it is not necessary to cover void regions with a very fine mesh. The implementation of a fine grid is expected mainly in the so-called grey regions where it has to be decided whether a cell becomes solid or void. The benefit of the proposed approach, besides the possibility of obtaining high-resolution, sharply resolved fine optimal topologies with a relatively low computational cost, is also that the checkerboard effect, mesh dependency, and the so-called grey areas can be eliminated without using any additional filtering. Moreover, the algorithm presented is versatile, which allows its easy combination with any structural analysis solver built on the finite element method.

Highlights

  • Topology optimization is still one of the most important issues in the field of optimal design of engineering structures

  • Application of Cellular Automata to structural optimization has occurred only in the last two this concept has been successfully applied to topology optimization, which was illustrated in a which series decades

  • To examine the proposed Cellular Automata method combined with the refined mesh adaptation, To examine the proposed Cellular Automata method combined with the refined mesh moreSci

Read more

Summary

Introduction

Topology optimization is still one of the most important issues in the field of optimal design of engineering structures. Mesh refinement compared to those with large number of designof variables involved, extensive computational allows inexpensive but aefficient improvement the finite elementwithout solution, as shown in [5,6]. Mesh refinement allows inexpensive but efficient improvement of the finite broad discussion of the current state of knowledge can be found in [7,8,9]. This paper is or focused on the of development of a grid, Cellular paper is focused on the of a Cellular algorithm with the optimization refined mesh meshThis adaptation technique, anddevelopment the implementation of Automata this algorithm in topology adaptation technique, andofthe of this algorithm in topology optimization problems.

The Aim of the Paper
Method
Neighborhoods
General
The Local Rule
Neighborhood
Cellular Automata Algorithm with Refined Mesh Adaptation
The Square Cantilever Structure
Initial structurewith withapplied applied loads example
10. Iteration
16. Iteration
17. Initial
18. Selected
The T-bracket Structure
23. Selected
The Kneestructure
28. Selected
29. Iteration
The Plane Structure with Holes
33. Iteration
Topology
35. The applied loads loads –the
37. Iteration
Topology Optimization under Self-Weight Load
Conclusions
Findings
Methods

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.