Topology optimization with a closed cavity exclusion constraint for additive manufacturing based on the fictitious physical model approach

TL;DR

This paper introduces a topology optimization method that incorporates a no-closed-cavity constraint, enhancing additive manufacturing by preventing cavity formation using a fictitious physical model approach.

Contribution

It develops a novel geometric constraint model for no closed cavities in topology optimization tailored for additive manufacturing, utilizing a level set-based method and fictitious physical model.

Findings

Validated the no-closed-cavity model with numerical examples

Demonstrated improved topology designs avoiding closed cavities

Provided algorithms for practical implementation in additive manufacturing

Abstract

This paper proposes a topology optimization method that considers the geometric constraint of no closed cavities to improve the effectiveness of additive manufacturing based on the fictitious physical model approach. First, the basic topology optimization concept and level set-based method are introduced. Next, the fictitious physical model for a geometric constraint in the topology optimization framework is discussed. Then, a model for the geometric constraint of no closed cavities for additive manufacturing is proposed. Numerical examples are provided to validate the proposed model. In addition, topology optimization considering the geometric constraint is formulated, and topology optimization algorithms are constructed using the finite element method. Finally, optimization examples are provided to validate the proposed topology optimization method.