Comparative Study of Peridynamics and Finite Element Method for Practical Modeling of Cracks in Topology Optimization

Recently, topology optimization of structures with cracks becomes an important topic for avoiding manufacturing defects at the design stage. This paper presents a comprehensive comparative study of peridynamics-based topology optimization method (PD-TO) and classical finite element topology optimization approach (FEM-TO) for designing lightweight structures with/without cracks. Peridynamics (PD) is a robust and accurate non-local theory that can overcome various difficulties of classical continuum mechanics for dealing with crack modeling and its propagation analysis. To implement the PD-TO in this study, bond-based approach is coupled with optimality criteria method. This methodology is applicable to topology optimization of structures with any symmetric/asymmetric distribution of cracks under general boundary conditions. For comparison, optimality criteria approach is also employed in the FEM-TO process, and then topology optimization of four different structures with/without cracks are investigated. After that, strain energy and displacement results are compared between PD-TO and FEM-TO methods. For design domain without cracks, it is observed that PD and FEM algorithms provide very close optimum topologies with a negligibly small percent difference in the results. After this validation step, each case study is solved by integrating the cracks in the design domain as well. According to the simulation results, PD-TO always provides a lower strain energy than FEM-TO for optimum topology of cracked structures. In addition, the PD-TO methodology ensures a better design of stiffer supports in the areas of cracks as compared to FEM-TO. Furthermore, in the final case study, an intended crack with a symmetrically designed size and location is embedded in the design domain to minimize the strain energy of optimum topology through PD-TO analysis. It is demonstrated that hot-spot strain/stress regions of the pristine structure are the most effective areas to locate the designed cracks for effective redistribution of strain/stress during topology optimization.

Automated summary

This study compares the peridynamics-based topology optimization method with the classical finite element topology optimization approach for designing lightweight structures with/without cracks. The results show that PD-TO consistently provides lower strain energy than FEM-TO for optimum topology of cracked structures and ensures a better design of stiffer supports in the areas of cracks.