TOPICS IN STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING: TOPOLGY OPTIMIZATIO

The course introduces topology optimization, a powerful computerized design tool with diverse engineering applications. The method is used for innovative applications in automotive and aviation industries, structural engineering, architecture, and bio-medical engineering.

Detailed content: finite elements for elastic continuum; optimization of a variable thickness sheet for minimum compliance; density-based topology optimization for minimum compliance using optimality criteria; general optimization methods, MMA method; projection functions and robust formulations; solutions for functionals beyond compliance: compliant mechanism design, fundamental frequency, minimization of maximum stress; manufacturing constraints; introduction to level-set-based topology optimization; extension to 3D: PDE filter, parallel computing.

Textbooks • Christensen, PW and Klarbring, A. An Introduction to Structural Optimization. Springer, 2009. • Bendsøe, MP and Sigmund, O. Topology Optimization: Theory, Methods and Applications. Springer-Verlag, 2003. • Cook, RD, Malkus, DS, Plesha, ME and Witt, RJ. Concepts and Applications of Finite Element Analysis, 4th Edition. Wiley, 2001.

Contact Hours per Week: 3

SEMESTER START DATE: March 25, 2026

Day & Time: Tuesday, 9:30-12:30 (Israeli Time - Please check the time difference you have with Israel)

After successfully completing the course, the students will be able to:

1. Formulate structural design problems as optimization problems.
2. Implement their own computer program executing topology optimization procedures of two-dimensional continua for principal response requirements, such as compliance minimization, maximization of the first fundamental frequency and minimization of the maximum stress.
3. For those interested in research: read up-to-date articles and begin independent research.
4. For those interested in industry: implement topology optimization in the design process.

Weekly meetings: three hours every week, combining lectures, tutorials and hands-on workshops; Homework: biweekly submission of reports; Evaluation: based on the reports and active participation in class.

CEE: 014104, 014143; ME: 034028, 034056; AE: 084506, 084135

Attend lectures, tutorials and hands-on workshops