A Novel Topology Optimization Approach using Conditional Deep Learning

In this study, a novel topology optimization approach based on conditional Wasserstein generative adversarial networks (CWGAN) is developed to replicate the conventional topology optimization algorithms in an extremely computationally inexpensive way. CWGAN consists of a generator and a discriminator, both of which are deep convolutional neural networks (CNN). The limited samples of data, quasi-optimal planar structures, needed for training purposes are generated using the conventional topology optimization algorithms. With CWGANs, the topology optimization conditions can be set to a required value before generating samples. CWGAN truncates the global design space by introducing an equality constraint by the designer. The results are validated by generating an optimized planar structure using the conventional algorithms with the same settings. A proof of concept is presented which is known to be the first such illustration of fusion of CWGANs and topology optimization.

A novel topology design approach using an integrated deep learning network architecture

Topology design optimization offers tremendous opportunity in design and manufacturing freedoms by designing and producing a part from the ground-up without a meaningful initial design as required by conventional shape design optimization approaches. Ideally, with adequate problem statements, to formulate and solve the topology design problem using a standard topology optimization process, such as SIMP (Simplified Isotropic Material with Penalization) is possible. In reality, an estimated over thousands of design iterations is often required for just a few design variables, the conventional optimization approach is in general impractical or computationally unachievable for real world applications significantly diluting the development of the topology optimization technology. There is, therefore, a need for a different approach that will be able to optimize the initial design topology effectively and rapidly. Therefore, this work presents a new topology design procedure to generate optimal structures using an integrated Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) and convolutional neural network architecture.