Topology-optimized modular structures have obtained considerable attention due to their potential advantages, including construction skills, transportability, reusability and reconfigurability. Most of the existing approaches focus on optimizing the design of a single modular type with a translational assembly pattern. However, the considerable performance improvements that can be achieved by optimizing the module orientations and the involvement of several modular types have been largely overlooked. This paper introduces a solid metric, which calculates the minimal Frobenius standard between the element wise sensitivities of two unit cells. This metric is combined with a progressive sample algorithm to group all unit cells in several types, which enables the integration of different modular types for greatly improved designer results. In addition, the metric forms the basis of recursive orientation technology that determines the assembly orientations of unit cells during the optimization. In the meantime, a simulated annealing-based update technology is proposed to ensure the selection of more efficient clustering and orientation configurations during the entire optimization process. A series of 2D and 3D examples are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach, which shows that periodic structures with cluster and oriented unit cells significantly exceed conventional periodic constructions. The developed methodology enables the design of light, modular structures with significantly improved structural stiffness.
Optimize finite periodic structures with cluster and oriented unit cells
