Topology optimization including a model of the layer-by-layer additive manufacturing process

A topology optimization formulation including a model of the layer-by-layer additive manufacturing (AM) process is considered. Defined as multi-objective minimization problem, accounts for performance and cost both final partially manufactured designs allows considering AM-related issues such overhang residual stresses in optimization. The exemplified by stiffness which limited adding mechanical or thermal compliance measure designs. Convergence approximate refined shown theoretically, an extensive numerical study indicates that this convergence can be fast, thus making it computationally viable approach useful into examples also show drips sharp corners associated with some geometry-based formulations limitation avoided. codes used article are written Python using only open sources libraries available reference.