A Multi-point constraints based integrated layout and topology optimization design of multi-component systems

The integrated layout and topology optimization is to find proper layout of movable components and topology patterns of their supporting structures, where two kinds of design variables, i.e. the structural pseudo-densities and the components’ locations are optimized simultaneously. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate a new multi-point constraints (MPC) based method where the rivets or bolts connections between the components and their supporting structures are introduced. The displacement consistence involved in the MPC is strictly maintained which makes the components to carry the loads together with the supporting structures. Moreover, more benefits like avoidance of finite element remeshing and precise geometry of the components can be obtained. In particular, sensitivities with respect to the components’ locations can be analytically and efficiently achieved by deriving the MPC equations. Finally, several numerical examples are tested and discussed to demonstrate the validity of the proposed method.