Synthesis through Topology Optimization

Abstract

This chapter describes an approach for synthesizing compliant mechanisms that uses topology optimization to meet particular functional needs. Topology optimization techniques are especially useful when the designer does not have a particular compliant mechanism already in mind. This approach can also be used to augment intuitionbased or experience-based compliant mechanism designs. Topology optimization can result in novel solutions that the designer might not have arrived at by means such as converting a known rigid-link mechanism to a compliant mechanism. It is intended to predict the best topology, or material connectivity in a compliant structure, for a particular compliant mechanism design problem. Topology optimization is widely used in a variety of structural design problems; the discussion here is focused on topology synthesis of compliant mechanisms. What is Topology Optimization?Topology is defined as the pattern of connectivity or spatial sequence of members or elements in a structure. The allowable space for the design in a topology optimization problem is called the design domain. The topology is defined by the distribution of material and void within the design domain (Figure 7.1). Nondesign elements (solid or void) can be specified and are not changed by the optimizer. For example, the designer may require that a certain portion of the design domain remain empty; this region would be specified as void nondesign.