A pseudo density topology optimization approach in nonlinear electromagnetism applied to a 3D actuator

Abstract

A pseudo density topology optimization approach is introduced in nonlinear electromagnetism, which follows the SIMP (Solid Isotropic Material with Penalization) method. The adjoint approach is used to arrive at the sensitivity of the objective function. The elaborated optimization procedure includes nonlinearity of the ferromagnetic material. On the other hand, an applied linear characteristic of the ferromagnetic material results in a too small or wrong electromagnetic actuator dimension. Non-conforming grids are used to achieve a high accuracy by computing the discrete form. At the same time the number of finite elements decreases strongly. The implementation is applied to an electromagnetic actuator in 2D and 3D.