Adapting ant colony optimization of compliant structures using elements with linearly varying cross-sections

Abstract

AbstractThis work addresses the design of miniature compliant displacement amplifiers. The optimum design of the compliant mechanism is generated through topology optimization of two-node frame elements with linearly varying cross sections using the Ant Colony Optimization technique. First, stiffness matrices that account for the change in the cross-section dimensions are formulated. Then, each element is assigned 5 independent ants that represent its design variables defined as the width and thickness of each of the two peripheral cross-sections in addition to the material density. Three case studies with customized cost functions are furnished; the first maximizes the amplification ratio, the second maximizes the output displacement, while the third maximizes both amplification ratio and output displacement simultaneously. The resulting micro-compliant amplifiers are more compact in volume and surpass their constant cross-section counterparts in terms of amplification ratio and output displacement while keeping relatively low internal stresses. The performances of all optimized topologies are verified through ANSYS.