Topology Optimization for Additive Manufacturing: Maximizing Performance and Minimizing Material Use

EasyChair Preprint 14215

Abstract

Topology optimization is a computational approach that optimizes material layout within a given design space for a given set of loads, boundary conditions, and constraints with the goal of maximizing performance and minimizing material use. This technique is particularly relevant in the context of additive manufacturing (AM), which offers unprecedented design freedom and the ability to produce complex geometries that are difficult or impossible to manufacture using traditional methods.

This paper explores the synergy between topology optimization and additive manufacturing, focusing on how the former can be leveraged to exploit the full potential of the latter. By integrating these two technologies, it is possible to design components that are not only lightweight but also tailored for specific performance requirements. The study investigates various aspects of this integration, including the impact of different optimization algorithms, the choice of objective functions (e.g., stiffness maximization, weight minimization), and the handling of manufacturing constraints such as overhangs and minimum feature sizes.

Keyphrases: Additive Manufacturing, Maximizing Performance, Minimizing Material Use, topology optimization

@booklet{EasyChair:14215,
  author    = {Favour Olaoye and Abram Gracias and Peter Broklyn},
  title     = {Topology Optimization for Additive Manufacturing: Maximizing Performance and Minimizing Material Use},
  howpublished = {EasyChair Preprint 14215},
  year      = {EasyChair, 2024}}