Thermodynamical Topology Optimization For Consideration of Dissipative Material Properties

• Applicant: Professor Dr.-Ing. Philipp Junker
• Subject Area: Mechanics
• Term: from 2019 to 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 418728303

The method of topology optimization determines the geometry of a component so that it provides maximum resistance, for example, to deformations at given external loads. There are different approaches, most of which have a mathematical or heuristic background. In the proposed research project, a method from the field of material modeling will be adapted and extended such that, in addition to topology optimization, even complex material properties, as e.g. inelastic strain rates, can be considered. This makes it possible to accurately consider the concrete material behavior, which is usually characterized by changes in the underlying microstructure, already during the optimization process. In this way, the potential of the material is fully exploited, and the optimization is carried out not only in terms of macroscopic structural properties but also in terms of microscopic material properties. Since the changes in the microstructure are dissipative processes, the proposed research project compares two different modeling methods and compares the results. One method minimizes conservative plus dissipative energy contributions; the other method maximizes dissipation. Both methods thus take into account the dissipative effects of the evolution of microstructures during optimization. However, which method is the "better" is not determinable in the foresight and will be examined in this research project.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants