Topology Optimization of Multibody Structures Considering Inertial Loads

Topology optimization (TO) of dynamic structures has traditionally focused on single-body components subject to harmonic and impact loads, with limited extension to multibody dynamics. This work presents a novel framework for topology optimization of multibody dynamic systems considering inertial loads. The method integrates density-based topology optimization with nonlinear multibody dynamics to capture the distribution of mass, stiffness, and inertia across interconnected rigid and flexible components. Inertial forces, arising from accelerations and joint interactions, are explicitly incorporated into the optimization formulation to ensure dynamically consistent designs. Numerical examples demonstrate how accounting for inertial effects leads to lightweight, dynamically efficient multibody structures that outperform conventional static- or harmonic-based designs. The proposed approach establishes a foundation for inertia-aware topology optimization of multibody systems, with potential applications in robotics, aerospace, and motorsports engineering.