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Topology optimization of fail-safe structures using a simplified local damage model

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Abstract

Topology optimization of mechanical structures often leads to efficient designs which resemble statically determinate structures. These economical structures are especially vulnerable to local loss of stiffness due to material failure. This paper therefore addresses local failure of continuum structures in topology optimization in order to design fail-safe structures which remain operable in a damaged state.

A simplified model for local failure in continuum structures is adopted in the robust approach. The complex phenomenon of local failure is modeled by removal of material stiffness in patches with a fixed shape. The damage scenarios are taken into account by means of a minimax formulation of the optimization problem which minimizes the worst case performance.

The detrimental influence of local failure on the nominal design is demonstrated in two representative examples: a cantilever beam optimized for minimum compliance and a compliant mechanism. The robust approach is applied successfully in the design of fail-safe alternatives for the structures in these examples.

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Acknowledgments

This research was supported by the NextTop project sponsored by the Villum Foundation and the KU Leuven - BOF PFV/10/002 OPTEC - Optimization in Engineering Center.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Civil Engineering, KU Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 40, B-3001, Leuven, Belgium

    Miche Jansen & Geert Lombaert

  2. Department of Architecture, Urbanism and Planning, KU Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 1, B-3001, Leuven, Belgium

    Mattias Schevenels

  3. Department of Mechanical Engineering, Solid Mechanics, Technical University of Denmark, Nils Koppel’s Allé, Building 404, 2800, Lyngby, Denmark

    Ole Sigmund

Authors
  1. Miche Jansen
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  2. Geert Lombaert
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  3. Mattias Schevenels
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  4. Ole Sigmund
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Correspondence to Miche Jansen.

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Jansen, M., Lombaert, G., Schevenels, M. et al. Topology optimization of fail-safe structures using a simplified local damage model. Struct Multidisc Optim 49, 657–666 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00158-013-1001-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00158-013-1001-y

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