Structure topology optimization with multi-point shape-preserving constraint

The purpose of this paper is to present an extended topology optimization suppressing the warping deformation of multiple control points in aircraft structural local domain. By applying artificial week elements (AWE) established with respect to the control points of shape-preserving design, the elastic warping deformation is quantified and suppressed by constraining the strain energies of AWE. Moreover, further studies on the paradox between shape-preserving constraint and global strain energy, probable distortion of load carrying path during topology optimization are carried out for in-depth understanding. Comparisons of several numerical results with the standard topology optimization have evidently shown that the effect of shape-preserving is successfully achieved by suppressing the warping deformation and controlling the relative displacements of multiple control points.