Topology Optimization for Hybrid Lattice Compliant Mechanisms with Multiple Microstructures.

Area of Science:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Computational Mechanics

Background:

• Hybrid lattice compliant mechanisms (HLCMs) offer enhanced performance over traditional solid designs.
• Widespread interest exists in HLCMs due to their superior compliant properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel optimization scheme for HLCMs using the independent continuous mapping (ICM) method.
• To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in designing HLCMs with various lattice microstructures.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing homogenization theory to obtain effective properties of lattice microstructures.
• Developing a parallel topology optimization model with a generalized multi-material, recognizing interpolation scheme and filter functions.
• Employing sensitivity analysis and linear programming for optimization.

Main Results:

• The proposed ICM method effectively optimizes HLCMs, bridging macrostructure layout and microstructure recognition.
• Anisotropic lattice microstructures (ALMs) lead to superior compliant performance in HLCMs compared to orthogonal lattice microstructures (OLMs).
• Numerical examples validated the method for displacement inverter and compliant gripper mechanisms.

Conclusions:

• The presented optimization method provides a valuable reference for designing HLCMs.
• The study promotes the theoretical development and practical application of the ICM method in compliant mechanism design.