Structural Optimization — Topology, Size & Shape
Topology optimization (SIMP method), size and shape optimization, stress constraints, manufacturing filters, and additive manufacturing design.
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Quick Explainer
What exactly does topology optimization solve for?
It decides where material should and should not exist within a design space to minimize an objective (usually compliance/maximize stiffness) subject to constraints like a volume fraction limit. The result is a density distribution — cells near 1 are solid, near 0 are void. The bone-like structures come from this process.
How do you make topology optimization results manufacturable?
Raw results often have floating members, internal voids, or undercuts impossible to manufacture. Common fixes: minimum member size controls, symmetry constraints, overhang angle filters for 3D printing, and draw direction constraints for casting. Modern codes build these constraints into the optimization itself.