Topology Optimization, a cutting-edge structural design methodology, produces novel and highly effective configurations that are both lightweight and efficient, but challenging to create using traditional methods. Engineers have long employed Topology Optimization to minimize material consumption and strain energy while retaining the mechanical strength of structures. Through the fulfilment of predetermined requirements and the minimization of a predetermined cost function, Topology Optimization is a mathematical technique that spatially optimizes the distribution of material inside a specified region. The cost function, design variables, and constraints comprise this optimization process' three critical components. In addition, Additive Manufacturing offers an alternative pattern for complex components, and, in modern manufacturing, the combination of Topology Optimization and Additive Manufacturing has a wide range of applications, maximizing the benefits and potential of both technologies. Furthermore, bio-inspired Topology Optimization for structural optimization will also provide additional advantages.

This Research Topic focuses on practical applications of the combination of Topology Optimization and Additive Manufacturing. Over the past several years, industries have shown an increased interest in Additive Manufacturing techniques. The techniques were initially created to produce prototypes, but they later changed to satisfy the demand for working mechanical components. Due to its ability to make complicated geometries that would be impossible to materialize using more conventional manufacturing techniques, Additive Manufacturing enables the fabrication of customized components in less time and with less waste. Beyond the technological considerations, however, many challenges remain unresolved, including the component design, process optimization, mechanical effects brought on by the process, and the longevity of the made parts.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

• The multiscale or hierarchical structural optimization design
• Topology Optimization based on Additive Manufacturing constraints
• Mechanical behavior of the additively manufactured parts
• Anisotropy and fatigue performance of additively manufactured materials
• Problems with additively manufactured functionally graded materials
• Challenges in structural design approaches for Additive Manufacturing
• Topology Optimization supporting multi-functionality and multi-objective optimization
• Bio-inspired Topology Optimization
• Topology Optimization incorporating AM process influence and manufacturability

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Frontiers in Manufacturing Technology

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