Topology Optimization Tips and Best Practices

Follow this checklist to see whether you are prepared to run a Topology Optimization on your part:

• An FE Volume Mesh of my part was created. 
• Material properties were assigned to the FE Volume Mesh to form an FE Model.
• Selected all the necessary FE Boundaries/Regions to localize all my boundary conditions. Created any tie constraints and FE connectors, if necessary, and assigned these to the model. 
• My Forces, Restraints, and other boundary conditions were grouped into one or multiple boundary condition lists (ideally set as a variable(s) for easy reference in each design response). These boundary conditions were appropriately assigned to the chosen FE Boundaries/Regions. 
• Static Structural analysis was run so that I could validate the initial performance of my part under the tabulated loading conditions. The results from the analysis seem accurate enough to continue (e.g., stresses not surpassing the elastic modulus of your material). 
• Double-checked all the results by outputting a Displacement Point Map and a Von Mises Stress Point Map. Save these in a block, as they could be useful later on (for comparing the analysis results from the TopOpt). You may now proceed with Topology Optimization. 

Here are a few practices to follow when running a topology optimization. These tips will help you output a useful TopOpt result.

• TopOpts with bending and torsional loads return a more unique and interesting result than TopOpts with simple tension/compression loads.
• Always keep in mind the printability of your part – ensure there are no floating elements in your final smoothened body
  • You can mesh your part and then use Filter Mesh to identify and remove any floating elements (dependent on their volume)

Tip:
– Double-click on an input field to list all compatible input blocks
– Ensure units are appropriately appended to all values (e.g. Pa for stresses, mm for lengths, etc.)
– Start using variables when your blocks are stacked with 3+ levels
– Use descriptive variable names for easy referencing
– Use comments to section parts of your workflow (e.g. section for simulation blocks, section for topology optimization blocks) – better organization of your notebook