Crashworthiness design of transient frame structures using topology optimization

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present topology optimization as a method to obtain conceptual designs for crashworthiness. The topology optimization formulation uses rigorously computed sensitivities. The large displacements and plasticity of the 2D beam elements are modelled with the co-rotational formulation and the plastic zone formulation, respectively. Three examples are presented to show the results of combining topology optimization and crashworthiness optimization.