3D topology optimization using an immune algorithm

Abstract

Purpose

The paper introduces an evolutionary algorithm based on the artificial immune systems paradigm for topology optimization (TO) in 3D.

Design/methodology/approach

The 3D TO algorithm is described, and experimentally validated on an electromagnetic design problem.

Findings

The proposed method is capable of finding an optimal configuration for the validation problem used.

Research limitations/implications

More tests are needed in order to fully assert the capabilities of the algorithm. Moreover, further improvements are needed in order to obtain smoother topologies at the end of the optimization procedure.

Practical implications

The paper presents a novel tool for the design of electromagnetic devices, using a TO approach.

Originality/value

So far most of the TO algorithms did not tackle true 3D problems, and the ones capable of 3D optimization do it at high computational costs. The algorithm presented here is capable of true 3D design at a reasonable computational budget.

Citation

Campelo, F., Watanabe, K. and Igarashi, H. (2007), "3D topology optimization using an immune algorithm", COMPEL - The international journal for computation and mathematics in electrical and electronic engineering, Vol. 26 No. 3, pp. 677-688. https://doi.org/10.1108/03321640710751145