Improving Topology Optimization using Games

Topology optimization has had, and still has, a great impact on the design of structures and mechanical elements. Even though computers and topology optimization algorithms are able to find good solutions to most problems, it is also important for users of such programs to have a good intuition for whether a structure is optimal. We hypothesize that human intuition regarding topology optimization is often led astray. Our goal is to collect data in order to test this hypothesis and at the same time to actively train users (in particular students of mechanical engineering) in designing optimal structures. Consequently, we have created a game, the TopOptGame, which improves the player’s topology optimization intuition in a fun and engaging way while collecting data about the users performance. Technically, the TopOptGame builds on the TopOptApp [1] an interactive topology optimization application designed for hand-held devices. The TopOptApp solves the 2D minimum compliance problem with interactive control of loads, supports and volume fraction, and thus the TopOptApp allows the user to change the problem on the fly and watch the design evolve to a new optimum in real time. TopOptApp is available free of charge on iOS and Android devices. The TopOptGame is inspired by puzzle-games (a genre of computer games), which constantly challenges the players and gives rewards when progress is 1TopOptApp can be downloaded using Apple’s App Store (iOS) and Google Play (Android)