**5. Conclusions**

A topology optimization work of piezoelectric actuators is illustrated to improve their output performances. As shown in this chapter, topology optimization is a powerful tool for the design of piezoelectric actuators. The aim of this work is to serve as an introduction for those who are interested in the piezoelectric actuator optimization research field, and provide a reference work for scholars. It has to be pointed out that there remain a series of unsolved problems in the field of designing piezoelectric

*Topology Optimization Methods for Flexure Hinge Type Piezoelectric Actuators DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.103983*

actuators using topology optimization. In addition to the potential future work mentioned in each section, the following aspects should be considered to further promote the development of this research field: (1) The static topology optimization methods provide an efficient way to find the optimal design of piezoelectric actuators. However, some manufacturing-oriented static topology optimization methods for the design of piezoelectric actuators need to receive more attention. (2) Topology optimization of piezoelectric actuators considering dynamic problems is another important topic. When the loads changed rapidly, such as "stick–slip" type loads, the dynamic response problems of piezoelectric actuators should be concerned. (3) More topology optimization codes should be released, especially for the design of piezoelectric actuators. (4) Multi-materials topology optimization problem can be applied to piezoelectric actuators, the related theory should be considered by many outstanding scholars in the further.
