Calculation of Structures under Compliance and Natural Frequency Constraints using Topology Optimization

This work presents a structural design methodology aided by topology optimization. The chosen objective is the material volume reduction, under compliance and natural frequency constraints.

The mechanical behavior of the structure is simulated by the finite element method. Both linear static and eigenvectors (frequencies and modes) analyses are performed.

The optimization solution is reached using sequential linear programming and optimality criteria algorithms. In all cases, sensitivity analyses of the objective function and constraints are calculated analytically.

Finally, some test cases of volume minimization with compliance and natural frequency constraints are shown, among them an automotive electrical transformer bracket design.