Setting up Topology Optimization and Topology Physics Models

Before running the optimization, you first set up the Topology Optimization model and the Topology Physics model.

To configure the settings in the Topology Optimization model:
  1. Select the Continua > [physics continuum] > Topology Optimization node and set Allow Hole Formation.

    For 2D cases, activate Allow Hole Formation to introduce branching in the flow domain.

    For 3D cases, only activate Allow Hole Formation if the first design achieved without hole formation is not satisfactory or manufacturable.

    By activating Allow Hole Formation, pockets of solid can appear anywhere in the optimization domain. A Source Strength is defined to specify a source term for the level set equation. It governs how quickly the holes are formed. See also:Allow Hole Formation.

To configure the settings in the Topology Physics model:
  1. Select the Continua > [physics continuum] > Topology Physics node and do the following:
    1. Select the Topology Physics > Solid Phase node and add the [topology optimization domain] to Regions.
    2. If necessary, modify the Brinkman Penalization Magnitude. For guidelines refer to Brinkman Penalization Magnitude.
    3. Select the Topology Physics > Solid Phase > Topology Physics > Models node and select Select Models....
      The topology optimization model adds by default an additional solid phase as blocker in the fluid domain. When the energy model is activated in the physics continuum, a solid model and equation of state must be selected for this additional solid phase.
  2. Select the Initial Conditions > Material Indicator node and set its Value.
    The default value 1.0 indicates that the optimizer starts with the material of the physics continuum, usually fluid. To generate more complex geometries, you can seed the domain with pockets of solid material to provide the optimizer more initial surfaces from which to grow the solid.
  3. When necessary, in the [topology optimization domain], for the wall boundaries and contact boundaries associated with contact interfaces, select the Physics Values > Material Indicator node and set its Value.

    The default value 0.0 indicates that solid material can grow from these boundaries into the optimization domain.

    Value 1.0 indicates no solid can grow from these boundaries. See also: Material Indicator.