Topology optimization of compliant mechanisms with multiple outputs

Abstract

A procedure for the topology design of compliant mechanisms with multiple output requirements is presented. Two methods for handling the multiple output requirements are developed, a combined virtual load method and a weighted sum of objectives method. The problem formulations and numerical solution procedures are discussed and illustrated by design examples. The examples illustrate the capabilities of the design procedure, the effect of the direction of the output deflection requirements on the solution, as well as computational issues such as the effect of the starting point and effect of the material resource constraint.