Gyroid cell usage in topology optimization of load-carrying parts

This paper discusses the implementation and usage of a gyroid cell in topology optimization of load-carrying structural parts. Conventional topology optimization relies on a linear elastic model and the strain energy density field of the structure in order to optimally distribute the material within a given domain. This procedure may take place either on a completely unrestricted topological domain space or on a restricted preconfigured domain. The latter option is often chosen in order to enforce a cellular type structure of the part. In this context, surface-based cells like the gyroid cell may be an attractive option under special circumstances. For that reason, this paper addresses briefly the problem of numerical processing of the topological domain space in case of gyroid cell usage. In this context, a numerically efficient and stable procedure is proposed, suitable to be engaged on very large finite element meshes. Furthermore, an interesting numerical example demonstrates that conventional topology optimization of a linear model can even be used to tune the plastic dissipation of a structure under large deformations.