Topology optimization is a computational design technique which aims to find the optimal placement of material in a given domain so as to attain the best design performance. One of the main frontiers of this research area is in developing techniques to perform topology optimization on systems with transient, nonlinear, multiscale and multiphysics phenomena. Simulation of these phenomena often requires advanced material models and finite element analysis techniques, making the task of devising optimization methods which can exploit these simulations highly nontrivial.
Topics of Interest
Related Publications
Architectured materials and metamaterials are emerging classes of materials which derive their outstanding capabilities not from the intrinsic properties of their components (which are comparatively inferior) but from complex and highly heterogeneous hierarchical topologies that can span a multitude of length scales. In order to improve the development of these materials, advanced multiscale analysis tools are needed which can capture both the complicated physical phenomena and intricate geometrical features present at microscales so as to quantify how material properties emerge from the complex interplay between constituent phases and topological arrangement.
Topics of Interest
Related Publications
Structural models such as beams and shells are widely used for engineering analysis and new finite element formulations of these structural models are needed to push the boundaries of engineering. For instance, there is an increasing trend among architects to utilize curved structural members as opposed to traditional straight structural members in the design of modern space structures. Additionally, the fabrication of micro- and nano-lattices brings new challenges with regard to the physics present at small scales.
Topics of Interest
Related Publications
The goal of steel frame design optimization is to minimize the weight of a frame structure by choosing the lightest steel sections possible while still meeting building codes strength and drift constraints as well as practical constraints such as constructability. From an optimization standpoint, this is a discrete optimization problem due to the restriction to standard steel member sections. Hence, metaheuristic algorithms are the method of choice since they rely on combinatorics heuristics rather than gradient information.
Topics of Interest
Related Publications