关键词: 拓扑优化, 路径吞噬方法, 载荷传递路径理论, 吞噬算法, 变密度法

Abstract:  To address the difficulty in establishing and solving mathematical models in optimization processes of complex engineering structures, a topology optimization method was established combining load transfer path theory and engulfment algorithm. Using load-transfer path theory to solve the major and minor transfer paths of the structures, an engulfment algorithm was proposed to optimally allocate materials according to the principle of allocating more materials to the regions with relatively high-stress and fewer materials to the regions with relatively low-stress in the structures. Taking cantilever beam and thin plate structure as examples, the path-engulfment method herein was compared to variable-density method with simulations and experiments. Results show that the method herein improves the stiffness and strength of the structures, and reduces the mass of the structures, which proves the accuracy and effectiveness of the method in structure optimization. The method does not need to establish or solve complex mathematical models, and takes into account smooth boundary processing, the optimized structure may be directly used for manufacturing, which is especially suitable for engineering applications.

Key words: topology optimization, path-engulfment method, load-transfer path theory, engulfment algorithm, variable-density method