We are studying topology optimization, which is a structural optimization method with a very high degree of freedom.

The left figure shows a optimal structure supporting a distributed load, and the right figure shows the optimization of a gripper.

Topology optimization has long been a technique known only to those in the know, but in recent years it has become generally known as a technology related to 3D printers.

Design engineering for 3D printers is called Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM). Topology optimization is considered to be one of its key elemental technologies.

(This is a gripper made by a metal 3D printer. Of course, it doesn't move. *Courtesy of Prof. Yuichiro Koizumi, Osaka University.)

Representative papers

- A. Takezawa, S. Nii, M. Kitamura, N. Kogiso, Topology optimization for worst load conditions based on the eigenvalue analysis of an aggregated linear system, Comput. Meth. Appl. Mech. Eng. 200 (25-28) (2011) 2268-2281.

- A. Takezawa, S. Nishiwaki, M. Kitamura, Shape and topology optimization based on the phase field method and sensitivity analysis, J. Comput. Phys. 229 (7) (2010) 2697-2718.