Topology Optimization of Composite Structure Using Bi-Directional Evolutionary Structural Optimization Method

This paper deals with topology optimization of composite structure using Bi-directional Evolutional Structural Optimization (BESO) method. By redefining the criteria of the optimization evolution progress, the proposed method is able to extend current BESO method from isotropic material to anisotropic composite material. The initial modification of BESO method is to allow for inefficient Material Element String (MES) to be removed while efficient MES to be added in the thickness direction of a composite structure. This modification can reduce the chance of high stress concentration in a composite structure and also produce the geometry which is easy to fabricate using fabrication techniques currently available. The results of a cantilever composite laminate under uniform in-plane pressure are presented, showing that the proposed method can produce shape and topology for composite structures with optimal structure stiffness. Future modifications of BESO method for composite structure are also discussed.