Metamorphic development: a new topology optimization method for continuum structures
An effective optimization procedure for finding structural shapes and topologies that minimize struct ural compliance and weight subject to stress and deflection constraints is presented. This new approach, called "Metamorphic Development" (MD), can allow a structure to grow and degenerate towards an optimum topological layout. In this method, the optimization can start fi om the simplest possible geometry (layout) or any degree of development of the structure rather than from a complex ground mesh. The structure is then developed metamorphically using rectangular and triangular elements that can be of ally specified sizes. Examples demonstrate the potential of the MD optimization procedure to generate innovative solutions to structural design problems. Results are given and the growth and degeneration histories during optimization are illustrated.
metamorphic development topology optimization continuum structures stress structural optimization displacement