Element Based Intelligent Algorithm for Topology Optimization of Structure

Abstract

This paper gives an accelerated evolutionary algorithm for structure topology optimization. It combines the merits of level set method and Evolutionary Structure Optimization (ESO) for structure topology optimization. The traditional level set algorithm has some drawbacks, for instance, its resultant optimal topology configuration depend on the initial configuration of the structure. Additionally, new holes cannot be inserted into the updated topology during the optimization iteration. The method proposed in this paper combines the merits of ESO techniques with the Level Set scheme, allowing new holes to be automatically inserted in regions with low deformation energy at prescribed iterations of the optimization. For complex structures in which holes cannot be properly inserted in advance, the proposed method considerably improves the ability of traditional level set algorithm to find the optimal topology. In addition to achieving more accurate results, the proposed method also yields higher efficiency during optimization. The validity and robustness of the new algorithm are supported with illustrative examples.