On Robustness Criteria and Robust Topology Optimization with Uncertain Loads

TL;DR

This paper introduces a versatile algorithm for robust topology optimization under uncertain loads, providing a rigorous robustness measure and demonstrating efficiency through numerical examples across various problem types.

Contribution

A new, general algorithm for robust topology optimization that handles uncertain loads and requires only standard problem-solving tools plus small eigenvalue problems.

Findings

Efficient algorithm applicable to various topology optimization problems.

Provides a rigorous measure of design robustness against load perturbations.

Numerical examples confirm the approach's effectiveness.

Abstract

We propose a new algorithm for the solution of the robust multiple-load topology optimization problem. The algorithm can be applied to any type of problem, e.g., truss topology, variable thickness sheet or free material optimization. We assume that the given loads are uncertain and can be subject to small random perturbations. Furthermore, we define a rigorous measure of robustness of the given design with respect to these perturbations. To implement the algorithm, the users only need software to solve their standard multiple-load problem. Additionally, they have to solve a few small-dimensional eigenvalue problems. Numerical examples demonstrate the efficiency of our approach.