Discussion Forum

Hello!

Could you help me with the following problem, please? I'm trying to perform topology optimization of steel plates used for internal fixation of bone fractures. Typical geometry is rectangular plate with several circular holes for bone screws used for attachment of the plate onto the bone. Objective of optimization is to find lightweight design of plate (with prescribed reduction of mass, e.g. 50 %) with minimized compliance. I use 2D model. During optimization shape of external rectangular boundary can be deformed and new holes (i.e. changes in topology) can be introduced, but circular holes should retain their shape and positions (geometric contraints). During creation of the model I have faced with the following problems: 1. Adequate representation of geometry. As I understand, I should use rectangular optimization domain with circular subdomains (representing holes) described as "Prescribed Voids". Is it OK to use boolean subtraction of circular areas from rectangle with keeping of input objects? (This operation results in perforated rectangle and circular areas) 2. Representation of geometric constraints. How to retain circular shape of the holes (suppress their deformation) during optimization? 3. Adequate meshing. As I understand, entire optimization domain (including prescribed voids) should be meshed?

Thank you in advance for any ideas!

Best regards, Dmitry.