Stiffeners layout design for noise reduction using topology optimization

An optimization approach of stiffeners layout design was proposed based on the topology optimization method to reduce sound radiation power generated by a vibrating structure. The variable mass density technique was employed in the topology optimization problem. Artificial densities of the stiffener elements were taken as the design variables, and the constraint condition was the upper limit of the total mass of the stiffeners. The optimization problem was solved using the hybrid MMA-GCMMA algorithm originating from the method of moving asymptotes (MMA) family. The vibrating response and the sound radiation of the structure were solved with FEM and BEM, respectively. The sensitivity analysis of the coupled acoustic-structural system was conducted analytically based on the FEM/BEM results. Examples of stiffened boxes were presented and discussed. Numerical results showed that the proposed optimization approach is effective and feasible.