Topology optimization of structures under dynamic response constraints

In recent years, the Evolutionary Structural Optimization (ESO) method has been developed into an effective tool for engineering design. However, no attempts have been made to incorporate random dynamic response constraints. The optimum design of structures with dynamic response constraints is of great importance, particularly in the aeronautical and automotive industries. This paper considers the extension and modification of the ESO method to control the structural random dynamic responses. The random dynamic theory is applied to build an expression of random dynamic response constraints considering engineering requirements. Based on the modal truncation method of eigenderivatives and some approximate process, a set of formulations for sensitivity numbers of mean square random dynamic responses is derived. The algorithm is implemented in optimization software. Several examples are provided to demonstrate the validity and effectiveness of the proposed method. (C) 2000 Academic Press.