How Mechanically Inspired Design Rules Help in the Topology Optimization of Structures with Highly Nonlinear Behavior

The efficient topology optimization of components based on purely mathematical algorithms is only possible for moderately non-linear structural behavior. This article is about the support of methods for topology optimization with design rules that are derived from expert knowledge. The use of these rules should help where mathematical methods cannot currently be used. The essential design rules of lightweight construction are presented and expanded to include design rules for crash-loaded structures. It is shown how these design rules can be algorithmized. These algorithmic design rules can be used as heuristics. They detect the situation in the mechanical structure and make topological changes based on this information. Different heuristics are used in competition with each other. Only a defined number of designs are allowed in the next iteration. The efficiency of the combination of mathematical optimization algorithms and algorithmic design tools is shown on various development tasks of crash structures. It is about optimizing the topology of laterally loaded profile structures made of metal and composite. In addition, topology optimizations of axially loaded structures are shown. The topology optimization of frame structures in three-dimensional space is also described.