Integrated Multi-step Design Method for Compliant Mechanisms Combining Topology and Shape Optimizations

Abstract

This paper proposes an advanced multi-step optimal design method composed of topology optimization and shape optimization, for designing practical compliant mechanisms. The proposed method consists of two steps. First a topology optimization is conducted to provide an optimal topology and rough shape outlines of the structure. In the second step, shape optimization is performed using the result of the first step as an initial solution and a detailed optimal shape is then obtained by the optimization procedure, during which a wide range of engineering requirements such as stress concentration and non-linear deformation can be considered. The integration of topology and shape optimizations as proposed in this paper uses the specific advantages of both optimization methods, providing useful and practical designs of compliant mechanisms.