Isogeometric shape optimization for scaffold structures

TL;DR

This paper presents an isogeometric boundary element method for optimizing scaffold microstructures to achieve desired effective properties, combining shape optimization and homogenization techniques.

Contribution

It introduces a novel approach integrating shape optimization with homogenization using isogeometric boundary elements for scaffold design.

Findings

Effective microstructure design matching target properties

Numerical validation demonstrating approach feasibility

Potential applications in medical and aerospace materials

Abstract

The development of materials with specific structural properties is of huge practical interest, for example, for medical applications or for the development of light weight structures in aeronautics. In this article, we combine shape optimization and homogenization for the optimal design of the microstructure in scaffolds. Given the current microstructure, we apply the isogeometric boundary element method to compute the effective tensor and to update the microstructure by using the shape gradient in order to match the desired effective tensor. Extensive numerical studies are presented to demonstrate the applicability and feasibility of the approach.