(to be submitted for journal publication )
E. C. N. Silva1, G.H. Paulino2
1Departmento de Engenharia Mecatrônica e Sistemas Mecânicos,
Escola Politecnica da Universidade de Sao Paulo,
Av. Professor Mello Moraes, 2231,
05508-900; Sao Paulo - SP,
Brazil
2Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Illinois
at Urbana-Champaign, Newmark
Laboratory, 205 North Mathews Avenue, IL
61801, U.S.A.
Abstract
Functionally Graded Materials (FGMs) possess continuously graded properties with gradual change in microstructure. The concept of an FGM is closely related to the concept of topology optimization, which consists essentially of a design method that seeks a continuum optimum material distribution in a design domain. This connection suggests that FGM structures can be designed using topology optimization concepts. Thus, in this work, topology optimization is applied to design FGM structures considering a minimum compliance design criterion. The present approach considers the so-called “continuous topology optimization” formulation where a continuous change of material properties is considered inside the design domain by using the graded finite element concept. Applications are explored in two main areas. First, a new design is obtained where distribution of the graded material itself is considered in the design domain leading to a structure with asymmetric stiffness properties. Second, the design of FGM layered structural systems is addressed, which connects naturally with available manufacturing techniques.
Key words: functionally graded materials (FGMs), topology optimization, layered FGMs