Classification of Primary and Secondary Structures Based on Topology Optimization Using Load Transfer Ustar (U*)

Abstract

The authors previously proposed a topology optimization method applying four conditions of the desired structure using the load transfer index Ustar (U *). In this paper we propose a new method to classify structures based on U* topology optimization. Our method is based on the integration of two structural systems. Whereas a primary structure serves as a load path, rendered from the conventional topology optimization based on U*, secondary structures defined by straight members serve to enhance the load transfer of the primary structure. Topology optimization calculations based on U* were performed for secondary structures then confirmed the improvement of the load transfer on the primary structure and the increase of the specific stiffness of the entire structure. Our proposed method is potential to perform topology optimization of integrated complex mechanisms, and to scale into large-scale systems.