ADMOS 2025

Topology optimization of continuum structures with natural frequencies and stress constraints

  • París, José (University of A Coruña)
  • Rey, Martín (University of A Coruña)
  • Couceiro, Iván (University of A Coruña)
  • Ramírez, Luis (University of A Coruña)
  • Navarrina, Fermín (University of A Coruña)

Please login to view abstract download link

In most engineering disciplines, with particular emphasis on civil engineering, undamped vibrations and natural frequencies of vibration play a fundamental role in achieving designs capable of complying with European structural standards. Therefore, in an optimization process, the inclusion of constraints derived from the dynamic behaviour of the structure is advantageous, as they enable circumventing issues associated with the coupling of natural frequencies with resonance, which significantly amplify the displacements and stresses generated within the structure. However, the fundamental difficulty in obtaining natural frequencies of vibration arises from the fact that the computational process involves solving a generalized eigenvalue problem. In this work, the use of constraints on Von Mises equivalent stress [2] and constraints on natural frequencies of vibration, coupled within the context of a topology optimization process for structures formulated for minimum weight, is presented. Topology optimization of structures, a discipline initiated by Bendsøe and Kikuchi [1] in 1988, aims to achieve optimal material distributions within a given mesh under specific loads and boundary conditions. By incorporating stress and dynamic constraints, we ensure compliance with structural requirements while guaranteeing the dynamic stability of the structure. For the topology optimization process, we will use the SIMP (Solid Isotropic Material with Penalization) method, which is based on the inclusion of a set of variables called relative densities that affect the linear elasticity of the elements and will be used as design variables. These variables will also be incorporated into the calculation of natural frequencies of vibration and, consequently, into the eigenvalue problem. Deal with the sensitivities of the problem will be another objective of this work. Additionally, examples of the application of this formulation, commonly used in civil engineering, will be presented.