Topology Optimization of Fluidic Pressure-Driven Multi-Material Compliant Mechanisms

Compliant mechanisms actuated by pneumatic loads are receiving increasing attention due to their direct applicability as soft robots that perform tasks using their flexible bodies. Using multiple materials to build them can further improve their performance and efficiency. Due to developments in additive manufacturing, the fabrication of...

Data-driven topology optimization of spinodoid metamaterials with seamlessly tunable anisotropy

We present a two-scale topology optimization framework for the design of macroscopic bodies with an optimized elastic response, which is achieved by means of a spatially-variant cellular architecture on the microscale. The chosen spinodoid topology for the cellular network on the microscale (which is inspired by natural microstructures...

Topology optimization of fluidic pressure-loaded structures and compliant mechanisms using the Darcy method

In various applications, design problems involving structures and compliant mechanisms experience fluidic pressure loads. During topology optimization of such design problems, these loads adapt their direction and location with the evolution of the design, which poses various challenges. A new density-based topology optimization approach...

Compliant Fluidic Control Structures: Concept and synthesis approach

The concept and synthesis approach for planar Compliant Fluidic Control Structures (CFCSs), monolithic flexible continua with embedded functional pores, is presented in this manuscript. Such structures are envisioned to find application in biomedicine as tunable microfluidic devices for drug/nutrient delivery. The functional pores enlarge and...