Topological Optimization Software Tools: Literature Review and Real Application

Resumo

The sake for the optimal condition or shape is inherent in us. Some optimization examples are
visible even in nature. In metals, for example, atoms tend to take positions of minimum energy in order
to form unit cells, which define the crystalline structure of these materials. In a zero gravity condition,
a liquid droplet forms a perfect sphere, which has the least surface area for a given volume. The first
historical example of structural optimization is present in Galileo’s work, in which he sought the optimal
structural shape of a cantilever beam. Since then, the optimization field has growth exponentially. In this
context, not only significant evolution in the theoretical field is necessary, but also, computational tools
capable to follow this growth are compulsory. New numerical methods have also been developed, such as
the Finite Element Method (FEM), distinguished for its accuracy and high adaptability for a broad type of
physical problems. Several software tools for topology optimization based on the FEM are available on
the market, however, few or none information about the optimization method or optimization parameters
are explicitly presented. This work aims to fulfill this conceptual lack, as well as, to show an extensive
review of topology optimization tools available for common users, such as commercial softwares or apps.
Thus, a realistic example of topology optimization is presented to show the feasibility of constructing an
optimized mechanical component using the computational tools described on this work.