Topology Optimization in Aircraft and Aerospace Structures Design

Topology optimization has become an effective tool for least-weight and performance design, especially in aeronautics and aerospace engineering. The purpose of this paper is to survey recent advances of topology optimization techniques applied in aircraft and aerospace structures design. This paper firstly reviews several existing applications: (1) standard material layout design for airframe structures, (2) layout design of stiffener ribs for aircraft panels, (3) multi-component layout design for aerospace structural systems, (4) multi-fasteners design for assembled aircraft structures. Secondly, potential applications of topology optimization in dynamic responses design, shape preserving design, smart structures design, structural features design and additive manufacturing are introduced to provide a forward-looking perspective.

[1]  Yi Min Xie,et al.  Evolutionary Structural Optimization , 1997 .

[2]  Yi Min Xie,et al.  Topological optimization design of structures under random excitations using SQP method , 2013 .

[3]  Yi Min Xie,et al.  Concurrent topology optimization of structures and their composite microstructures , 2014 .

[4]  A. Tucker,et al.  Topology Optimisation of Aircraft Wing Box Ribs , 2004 .

[5]  Xu Guo,et al.  Explicit layout control in optimal design of structural systems with multiple embedding components , 2015 .

[6]  P. Breitkopf,et al.  A reduced multiscale model for nonlinear structural topology optimization , 2014 .

[7]  Bret Stanford,et al.  Simultaneous Topology Optimization of Membrane Wings and Their Compliant Flapping Mechanisms , 2013 .

[8]  Brian C. Watson,et al.  An Analytical Bi-Directional Growth Parameterization to Obtain Optimal Castable Topology Designs , 2004 .

[9]  David Kennedy,et al.  Optimization of postbuckled stiffened panels with multiple stiffener sizes , 2007 .

[10]  Ramana V. Grandhi,et al.  A survey of structural and multidisciplinary continuum topology optimization: post 2000 , 2014 .

[11]  Bo Wang,et al.  Two-stage size-layout optimization of axially compressed stiffened panels , 2014 .

[12]  Yi Min Xie,et al.  A further review of ESO type methods for topology optimization , 2010 .

[13]  Y. Xie,et al.  A simple evolutionary procedure for structural optimization , 1993 .

[14]  Wolfgang Achtziger,et al.  Two approaches for truss topology optimization: a comparison for practical use , 1996 .

[15]  Ming Li,et al.  Optimal design of strap-down inertial navigation support under random loads , 2010, The 2010 IEEE International Conference on Information and Automation.

[16]  Hu Liu,et al.  A comparative study of dynamic analysis methods for structural topology optimization under harmonic force excitations , 2015 .

[17]  G Richardson,et al.  Optimization of bolted joints connecting honeycomb panels , 2007 .

[18]  Richard T. Barrett.  Fastener Design Manual , 2005 .

[19]  David Bassir,et al.  Numerical Optimization applied to structure sizing at AIRBUS: A multi-step process , 2009 .

[20]  Jung Hun Park,et al.  Automatic Synthesis of a Planar Linkage Mechanism With Revolute Joints by Using Spring-Connected Rigid Block Models , 2007 .

[21]  G. Michailidis.  Manufacturing Constraints and Multi-Phase Shape and Topology Optimization via a Level-Set Method , 2014 .

[22]  Yi Min Xie,et al.  TOPOLOGY OPTIMIZATION OF STRUCTURES UNDER DYNAMIC RESPONSE CONSTRAINTS , 2000 .

[23]  S. N. Patnaik,et al.  General-purpose optimization method for multidisciplinary design applications , 2000 .

[24]  George I. N. Rozvany,et al.  On the validity of ESO type methods in topology optimization , 2001 .

[25]  Hae Chang Gea,et al.  Optimal stiffener design for interior sound reduction using a topology optimization based approach , 2003 .

[26]  Noboru Kikuchi,et al.  Optimal shape and location of piezoelectric materials for topology optimization of flextensional actuators , 2001 .

[27]  P. Breitkopf,et al.  Multiscale structural topology optimization with an approximate constitutive model for local material microstructure , 2015 .

[28]  Yoon Young Kim,et al.  Topology optimization of planar shape memory alloy thermal actuators using element connectivity parameterization , 2011 .

[29]  N. Kikuchi,et al.  A homogenization method for shape and topology optimization , 1991 .

[30]  G. K. Ananthasuresh,et al.  Optimal Embedding of Rigid Objects in the Topology Design of Structures , 2004 .

[31]  Raphael T. Haftka,et al.  Structural Optimization of a Hat-Stiffened Panel Using Response Surfaces , 2002 .

[32]  Lars Krog,et al.  Application of Topology, Sizing and Shape Optimization Methods to Optimal Design of Aircraft Components , 2011 .

[33]  G. Allaire,et al.  Structural optimization using sensitivity analysis and a level-set method , 2004 .

[34]  Weihong Zhang,et al.  Simultaneous design of components layout and supporting structures using coupled shape and topology optimization technique , 2008 .

[35]  B. Stanford,et al.  Optimal Compliant Flapping Mechanism Topologies With Multiple Load Cases , 2012 .

[36]  Jihong Zhu,et al.  A Multi-point constraints based integrated layout and topology optimization design of multi-component systems , 2015 .

[37]  Kurt Maute,et al.  Level-set methods for structural topology optimization: a review , 2013 .

[38]  Pedro P. Camanho,et al.  Stress analysis and strength prediction of mechanically fastened joints in FRP: A review , 1997 .

[39]  Xiaoming Wang,et al.  A feature-based topological optimization for structure design , 2008, Adv. Eng. Softw..

[40]  Z. Kang,et al.  Integrated topology optimization with embedded movable holes based on combined description by material density and level sets , 2013 .

[41]  Dimitris C. Lagoudas,et al.  Aerospace applications of shape memory alloys , 2007 .

[42]  Cyril Touzé,et al.  Non-linear dynamic thermomechanical behaviour of shape memory alloys , 2012 .

[43]  Ling Yang,et al.  Load distribution in composite multifastener joints , 1996 .

[44]  Michael Yu Wang,et al.  Shape feature control in structural topology optimization , 2008, Comput. Aided Des..

[45]  Anand Ramani,et al.  A pseudo-sensitivity based discrete-variable approach to structural topology optimization with multiple materials , 2010 .

[46]  G. Yoon.  Structural topology optimization for frequency response problem using model reduction schemes , 2010 .

[47]  H. Chickermane,et al.  Design of multi-component structural systems for optimal layout topology and joint locations , 1997, Engineering with Computers.

[48]  Yi Min Xie,et al.  Evolutionary structural optimization for connection topology design of multi‐component systems , 2001 .

[49]  Yoon Young Kim,et al.  Topology optimization of planar linkage mechanisms , 2014 .

[50]  Gengdong Cheng,et al.  Recent development in structural design and optimization , 2010 .

[51]  Li Yu,et al.  Topology Optimization with Shape Preserving Design , 2014 .

[52]  Alain Remouchamps,et al.  Application of a bi-level scheme including topology optimization to the design of an aircraft pylon , 2011 .

[53]  Tao Jiang,et al.  A Systems Approach to Structural Topology Optimization: Designing Optimal Connections , 1997 .

[54]  C. Fleury.  First and second order convex approximation strategies in structural optimization , 1989 .

[55]  Shan Peng,et al.  A LEVEL SET-BASED APPROACH FOR SIMULTANEOUS OPTIMIZATION OF THE STRUCTURAL TOPOLOGY AND THE LAYOUT OF EMBEDDING STRUCTURAL COMPONENTS , 2013 .

[56]  T. Buhl.  Simultaneous topology optimization of structure and supports , 2002 .

[57]  Pasi Tanskanen,et al.  The evolutionary structural optimization method: theoretical aspects , 2002 .

[58]  N. Kikuchi,et al.  Preprocessing and postprocessing for materials based on the homogenization method with adaptive fini , 1990 .

[59]  V. Braibant,et al.  Structural optimization: A new dual method using mixed variables , 1986 .

[60]  James K. Guest,et al.  Imposing maximum length scale in topology optimization , 2009 .

[61]  David James Granville,et al.  SAMCEF DESIGN, A new Object Oriented Environment for the Design of Mechanical Systems , 2001 .

[62]  M. Beckers,et al.  Topology optimization using a dual method with discrete variables , 1999 .

[63]  Jihong Zhu,et al.  Structural design of aircraft skin stretch-forming die using topology optimization , 2013, J. Comput. Appl. Math..

[64]  Rui Hu,et al.  H-DGTP—a Heaviside-function based directional growth topology parameterization for design optimization of stiffener layout and height of thin-walled structures , 2015 .

[65]  Shiwei Zhou,et al.  Topology optimization of microstructures of cellular materials and composites for macrostructures , 2013 .

[66]  M. Zhou,et al.  The COC algorithm, Part II: Topological, geometrical and generalized shape optimization , 1991 .

[67]  George I. N. Rozvany,et al.  A critical review of established methods of structural topology optimization , 2009 .

[68]  J. Petersson,et al.  Numerical instabilities in topology optimization: A survey on procedures dealing with checkerboards, mesh-dependencies and local minima , 1998 .

[69]  James K. Guest,et al.  Achieving minimum length scale in topology optimization using nodal design variables and projection functions , 2004 .

[70]  Vadim Shapiro,et al.  Theory of R-functions and Applications: A Primer , 1991 .

[71]  Bo Wang,et al.  Hybrid optimization of hierarchical stiffened shells based on smeared stiffener method and finite element method , 2014 .

[72]  Bo Wang,et al.  Optimum design of hierarchical stiffened shells for low imperfection sensitivity , 2014 .

[73]  Y. Xie,et al.  Computational efficiency and validation of bi-directional evolutionary structural optimisation , 2000 .

[74]  Stijn Donders,et al.  A reduced beam and joint concept modeling approach to optimize global vehicle body dynamics , 2009 .

[75]  Hae Chang Gea,et al.  Optimal fastener pattern design considering bearing loads , 1999 .

[76]  K. Svanberg.  The method of moving asymptotes—a new method for structural optimization , 1987 .

[77]  Jihong Zhu,et al.  A superelement formulation for the efficient layout design of complex multi-component system , 2012 .

[78]  Ole Sigmund,et al.  A 99 line topology optimization code written in Matlab , 2001 .

[79]  Qing Li,et al.  A simple checkerboard suppression algorithm for evolutionary structural optimization , 2001 .

[80]  Dmitri Tcherniak,et al.  Topology optimization of resonating structures using SIMP method , 2002 .

[81]  Michael Chun-Yung Niu,et al.  Airframe Structural Design: Practical Design Information and Data on Aircraft Structures , 1988 .

[82]  H. Gea,et al.  A systematic topology optimization approach for optimal stiffener design , 1998 .

[83]  Timo Björk,et al.  Pattern optimization of eccentrically loaded multi-fastener joints , 2009 .

[84]  N. Olhoff,et al.  An investigation concerning optimal design of solid elastic plates , 1981 .

[85]  Jan Sokolowski,et al.  On the Topological Derivative in Shape Optimization , 1999 .

[86]  David Bushnell,et al.  Optimum Design of Stiffened Panels With Substiffeners , 2005 .

[87]  M. Bendsøe,et al.  Material interpolation schemes in topology optimization , 1999 .

[88]  Jihong Zhu,et al.  Optimal Packing Configuration Design with Finite-Circle Method , 2012, J. Intell. Robotic Syst..

[89]  Je Hoon Oh,et al.  Optimum bolted joints for hybrid composite materials , 1997 .

[90]  Lothar Harzheim,et al.  A review of optimization of cast parts using topology optimization , 2005 .

[91]  C. S. Jog,et al.  Stability of finite element models for distributed-parameter optimization and topology design , 1996 .

[92]  Masoud Rais-Rohani,et al.  Manufacturability-Based Optimization of Aircraft Structures Using Physical Programming , 2001 .

[93]  D. Bojczuk,et al.  Optimization of layout and shape of stiffeners in 2D structures , 2008 .

[94]  G. K. Ananthasuresh,et al.  Topology optimization of compliant mechanisms with multiple materials using a peak function material interpolation scheme , 2001 .

[95]  J. Sethian,et al.  Structural Boundary Design via Level Set and Immersed Interface Methods , 2000 .

[96]  Ramin Sedaghati,et al.  The development of a preliminary structural design optimization method of an aircraft wing-box skin-stringer panels , 2010 .

[97]  Yu Li,et al.  Structural topology optimization with constraints on multi-fastener joint loads , 2014 .

[98]  Casper Schousboe Andreasen,et al.  An explicit parameterization for casting constraints in gradient driven topology optimization , 2011 .

[99]  Christopher B. Williams,et al.  Topology Optimization for Additive Manufacturing: Considering Maximum Overhang Constraint , 2014 .

[100]  Gregory W. Reich,et al.  Development of Skins for Morphing Aircraft Applications via Topology Optimization , 2007 .

[101]  Qi Xia,et al.  A level set based method for the optimization of cast part , 2010 .

[102]  Dimitris C. Lagoudas,et al.  Use of a Ni60Ti shape memory alloy for active jet engine chevron application: I. Thermomechanical characterization , 2009 .

[103]  M. Zhou,et al.  PROGRESS IN TOPOLOGY OPTIMIZATION WITH MANUFACTURING CONSTRAINTS , 2002 .

[104]  Jihong Zhu,et al.  Some Recent Advances in the Integrated Layout Design of Multicomponent Systems , 2011 .

[105]  P. Duysinx,et al.  Note on topology optimization of continuum structures including self-weight , 2005 .

[106]  M. Rais-Rohani,et al.  Reinforcement layout and sizing optimization of composite submarine sail structures , 2007 .

[107]  A. Chambolle,et al.  Design-dependent loads in topology optimization , 2003 .

[108]  Jan Van Humbeeck,et al.  Non-medical applications of shape memory alloys , 1999 .

[109]  Weihong Zhang,et al.  Sensitivity analysis with the modified Heaviside function for the optimal layout design of multi-component systems , 2012 .

[110]  P. Breitkopf,et al.  Concurrent topology optimization design of material and structure within FE2 nonlinear multiscale analysis framework , 2014 .

[111]  Brian Sanders,et al.  Topology Optimization Approach for the Determination of the Multiple-Configuration Morphing Wing Structure , 2008 .

[112]  V. Kobelev,et al.  Bubble method for topology and shape optimization of structures , 1994 .

[113]  M. Bendsøe.  Optimal shape design as a material distribution problem , 1989 .

[114]  Pierre Duysinx,et al.  Dual approach using a variant perimeter constraint and efficient sub-iteration scheme for topology optimization , 2003 .

[115]  Yonghua Chen,et al.  Manufacturable mechanical part design with constrained topology optimization , 2012 .

[116]  G. Rozvany.  Aims, scope, methods, history and unified terminology of computer-aided topology optimization in structural mechanics , 2001 .

[117]  Wayne W. Cai,et al.  Digital Panel Assembly Methodologies and Applications for Compliant Sheet Components , 2006 .

[118]  Yoon Young Kim,et al.  Optimization of Support Locations of Beam and Plate Structures Under Self-Weight by Using a Sprung Structure Model , 2009 .

[119]  C. Fleury,et al.  A family of MMA approximations for structural optimization , 2002 .

[120]  R. Kohn,et al.  Optimal design and relaxation of variational problems, III , 1986 .

[121]  Michael Yu Wang,et al.  Design of multimaterial compliant mechanisms using level-set methods , 2005 .

[122]  Weihong Zhang,et al.  Scale‐related topology optimization of cellular materials and structures , 2006 .

[123]  O. Sigmund,et al.  Topology optimization approaches , 2013, Structural and Multidisciplinary Optimization.

[124]  C. S. Jog,et al.  A new approach to variable-topology shape design using a constraint on perimeter , 1996 .

[125]  Piotr Breitkopf,et al.  An implicit model for the integrated optimization of component layout and structure topology , 2013 .

[126]  Jihong Zhu,et al.  Integrated layout design of supports and structures , 2010 .

[127]  T. E. Bruns,et al.  Topology optimization of non-linear elastic structures and compliant mechanisms , 2001 .

[128]  Koetsu Yamazaki,et al.  Stiffener layout design for plate structures by growing and branching tree model (application to vibration-proof design) , 2004 .

[129]  Hae Chang Gea,et al.  Automated Optimal Stiffener Pattern Design , 1999 .

[130]  M. Wang,et al.  Level Set Based Structural Topology Optimization for Minimizing Frequency Response , 2011 .

[131]  Arnout Willockx,et al.  Flow Visualisation Within Inclined Louvered Fins , 2007 .

[132]  Zhu Jihong,et al.  Maximization of structural natural frequency with optimal support layout , 2006 .

[133]  Xu Guo,et al.  Explicit feature control in structural topology optimization via level set method , 2014 .

[134]  Liang Xia,et al.  Integrated layout design of multi-component systems using XFEM and analytical sensitivity analysis , 2012 .

[135]  Weihong Zhang,et al.  Integrated layout design of multi‐component system , 2009 .

[136]  Johan Ekh,et al.  Finite element modeling and optimization of load transfer in multi-fastener joints using structural elements , 2008 .

[137]  J. N. Kudva,et al.  Overview of the DARPA Smart Wing Project , 2004 .

[138]  M. Bendsøe,et al.  Topology Optimization: "Theory, Methods, And Applications" , 2011 .

[139]  Wael Zaki,et al.  Theoretical and numerical modeling of solid–solid phase change: Application to the description of the thermomechanical behavior of shape memory alloys , 2008 .

[140]  O. Sigmund.  Morphology-based black and white filters for topology optimization , 2007 .

[141]  S. N. Patnaik,et al.  Design optimization of large structural systems with substructuring in a parallel computational environment , 1994 .

[142]  Jihong Zhu,et al.  An improved adaptive constraint aggregation for integrated layout and topology optimization , 2015 .

[143]  Vadim Shapiro,et al.  Shape optimization with topological changes and parametric control , 2007 .

[144]  Byeng D. Youn,et al.  Variation Propagation Analysis on Compliant Assemblies Considering Contact Interaction , 2007 .

[145]  Peter Horst,et al.  Multilevel optimization in aircraft structural design evaluation , 2008 .

[146]  Dongwoo Sheen,et al.  Checkerboard‐free topology optimization using non‐conforming finite elements , 2003 .

[147]  Kepeng Qiu,et al.  Bi-Directional Evolutionary Topology Optimization Using Element Replaceable Method , 2007 .

[148]  G. Allaire,et al.  Topology optimization for minimum stress design with the homogenization method , 2004 .

[149]  Tao Jiang,et al.  Topology design to improve HDD suspension dynamic characteristics , 2006 .

[150]  Y. Xie,et al.  Perimeter control in the bidirectional evolutionary optimization method , 2002 .

[151]  M. Bendsøe,et al.  Generating optimal topologies in structural design using a homogenization method , 1988 .