Mixed variational formulations for structural topology optimization based on the phase-field approach

arXiv2103.00939MaRDI QIDQ6361815FDOQ6361815

Authors: Michele Marino, Ferdinando Auricchio, Alessandro Reali, Elisabetta Rocca, Ulisse Stefanelli 

Publication date: 1 March 2021

Abstract: We propose a variational principle combining a phase-field functional for structural topology optimization with a mixed (three-field) Hu-Washizu functional, then including directly in the formulation equilibrium, constitutive, and compatibility equations. The resulting mixed variational functional is then specialized to derive a classical topology optimization formulation (where the amount of material to be distributed is an emph{a priori} assigned quantity acting as a global constraint for the problem) as well as a novel topology optimization formulation (where the amount of material to be distributed is minimized, hence with no pre imposed constraint for the problem). Both formulations are numerically solved by implementing a mixed finite element scheme, with the second approach avoiding the introduction of a global constraint, hence respecting the convenient local nature of the finite element discretization. Furthermore, within the proposed approach it is possible to obtain guidelines for settings proper values of phase-field-related simulation parameters and, thanks to the combined phase-field and Hu-Washizu rationale, a monolithic algorithm solution scheme can be easily adopted. An insightful and extensive numerical investigation results in a detailed convergence study and a discussion on the obtained final designs. The numerical results clearly highlight differences between the two formulations as well as advantages related to the monolithic solution strategy; numerical investigations address both two-dimensional and three-dimensional applications.

This page was built for publication: Mixed variational formulations for structural topology optimization based on the phase-field approach

Report a bug (only for logged in users!)Click here to report a bug for this page (MaRDI item Q6361815)