Topology optimization methods for guided flow – comparison of optimality criteria vs. phase‐field method

Abstract

AbstractOptimization of guided flow problems is an important task for industrial applications especially those with high Reynolds numbers. There exist several optimization methods to increase the energy efficiency of these problems. Different optimization methods are shown bei Klimetzek [1], Hinterberger [2] and Pingen [3]. In recent years the phase‐field method has been shown to be an applicable method for different kinds of topology optimization [4, 5].We present results of topology optimization methods with optimality criterion and by using a phase‐field model in the area of guided fluid flow problems. The two methods aim on the same main target reducing the pressure drop between the inlet and outlet of the flow domain. The first method is based on local optimality criterion, preventing the backflow in the flow domain [1, 6, 7]. The second method is based on a phase field model, which describes a minimization problem and uses a specially constructed driving force to minimize the total energy of the system [4, 5].We investigate the capabilities and limits of both methods and present examples of different resulting geometries. The initial configurations are prepared in a way that the same optimization problem is solved with both methods. We discuss these results regarding the shape of the improved flow geometry. (© 2013 Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)