Topology optimization with manufacturable multi-material primitives

Abstract

Topology optimization is a field extending to the built environment. Traditionally, optimization focuses mainly on monolithic structures but recently, developments have been made toward determining algorithms for multi-material optimization. A preexisting algorithm is modified to broaden the type of design possible with the method. The algorithm uses a three-phase design problem, a void phase and two other materials, and implements Heaviside Projection Method (HPM) and Rational Approximation of Material Properties (RAMP) method and employs the Method of Moving Asymptotes (MMA) as the gradient based optimizer. Three distinct object projection shapes are proposed, a horizontal, a vertical and a diagonal. The horizontal shaped inclusion enables designs such as, longitudinal reinforced concrete beam design of variable length bars. The vertical shaped inclusion enables designs of columns. The diagonal shaped inclusion allows for design of rebar within more slanted sections of optimized topology. The proposed algorithm is tested on two examples, the cantilever beam and the MBB beam, showing that it works as expected.