Topology optimization of laminated composite structures with design-dependent loads

A solution for the topology structures of composite laminates with design-dependent loads is presented. The methodology is based on the isoline method, the sensitivity filter with density gradient weighting, and the solid isotropic material with penalization (SIMP) method. In addition, the element stiffness matrix for composite layups is derived. Two- and three-joint constraint examples of the topology optimization design for composite structures are presented. The work efficiency of the isoline method and the distance regularized level set evolution (DRLSE) method are compared; five other filtering methods are also studied. The distribution rule of solid material and the relationship between the minimum compliance of optimal structures and the principal angle of composite layups are discussed.