Mass-Saving in Structures

**71**

**Chapter 4**

Structures

*Aykut Kentli*

**1. Introduction**

**Abstract**

Topology Optimization

researchers will easily find the related studies with their work.

**Keywords:** topology optimization, finite element method

algorithms such as genetic algorithm [3].

Applications on Engineering

Over the years, several optimization techniques were widely used to find the optimum shape and size of engineering structures (trusses, frames, etc.) under different constraints (stress, displacement, buckling instability, kinematic stability, and natural frequency). But, most of them require continuous data set where, on the other hand, topology optimization (TO) can handle also discrete ones. Topology optimization has also allowed radical changes in geometry which concludes better designs. So, many researchers have studied on topology optimization by developing/using different methodologies. This study aims to classify these studies considering used methods and present new emerging application areas. It is believed that

Topology optimization (TO) is carried out to obtain an optimal structural layout [1]. It is one of the branches of optimization methods differing from size and shape optimization. As expected, as a type of optimization method, it has constant parameters, like applied loads, material type, etc., objective function and constraints which change for every problem, and lastly variable which are the parameters of the material layout. In shape optimization, it aimed to find the position of the member of the structure, while in size optimization, only finding the size of the members is enough. In both cases, there will be no change in the number of members. On the other hand, in topology optimization some part or member of the structure will be deleted and a new layout will be prepared [2]. It is generally preferred to use finite element method (FEM) as meshing eases to find the places to be deleted. But as an optimization algorithm, several kinds are used including both gradient-based such as optimality criteria methods and non-gradient-based

The topology optimization of structures has proven to be a valuable tool for the identification of the best concepts in early phases of the design process. It is widely used in lightweight design of structures in automotive and aerospace industry, as

This chapter will give brief introduction on topology optimization and later give related studies under several classifications. There are several well-prepared and

well as in civil engineering, material science, and biomechanics [1, 4, 5].
