On Hole Nucleation in Topology Optimization Using the Level Set Methods
S.Y. Wang1,2, K.M. Lim2,3, B.C. Khoo2,3, M.Y. Wang4
CMES-Computer Modeling in Engineering & Sciences, Vol.21, No.3, pp. 219-238, 2007, DOI:10.3970/cmes.2007.021.219
Abstract Hole nucleation is an important issue not yet fully addressed in structural topology optimization using the level set methods. In this paper, a consistent and robust nucleation method is proposed to overcome the inconsistencies in the existing implementations and to allow for smooth hole nucleation in the conventional shape derivatives-based level set methods to avoid getting stuck at a premature local optimum. The extension velocity field is constructed to be consistent with the mutual energy density and favorable for hole nucleation. A negative extension velocity driven nucleation mechanism is established due to the physically meaningful… More >