Structural topology optimization with constraints on multi-fastener joint loads

This paper addresses an important problem of design constraints on fastener joint loads that are well recognized in the design of assembled aircraft structures. To avoid the failure of fastener joints, standard topology optimization is extended not only to minimize the structural compliance but also to control shear loads intensities over fasteners. It is shown that the underlying design scheme is to ameliorate the stiffness distribution over the structure in accordance with the control of load distributions over fastener joints. Typical examples are studied by means of topology optimization with joint load constraints and the standard compliance design. The effects of joint load constraints are highlighted by comparing numerical optimization results obtained by both methods. Meanwhile, resin models of optimized designs are fabricated by rapid prototyping process for loading test experiments to make sure the effectiveness of the proposed method.