Robust topology optimization of continuum structures with loading uncertainty using a perturbation method

An approach for the robust topology optimization (RTO) of continuum structures with loading uncertainty is investigated. The loading uncertainties are quantified using the second order Taylor series expansion of uncertain loading magnitudes and directions, and then the response statistic mean and standard deviation of compliance are calculated using the uncertain perturbation propagation method. A robust design Lagrange function considering the compliance objective and finite element constraints is developed, and a sensitivity analysis is performed to calculate the Lagrange coefficients. The Lagrange objective function is optimized using the modified solid isotropic material with penalization (SIMP) algorithm; thus, the optimum material distribution under loading uncertainty is acquired. The proposed methodology is used for the RTO of two examples, revealing its efficiency under both concentrated and distributed uncertain loadings. The accuracy of the results is verified by comparison with similar cases found in the literature where a different modelling approach was used.