Dynamic design of stiffeners for a typical panel using topology optimization and finite element analysis

The design of stiffeners is an effective approach to enhance the stiffness of panel-type structures. However, the stiffness–mass efficiency depends largely on the spacing, orientation, and cross-section of the stiffeners. In order to improve the stiffness–mass efficiency, this article presents a combined use of topology optimization and finite element analysis to the dynamic design of stiffeners for a typical panel. Finite element models of a flat and a stiffened rectangular panel were constructed. Modal analysis was conducted on the two panels to obtain the basic dynamic properties. Topology optimization model of the stiffened panel, so-called initial structure, was built based on the variable density method. According to the loading case and the predominant mode of the system, the objective function was determined to maximize the fundamental frequency of the panel. The stiffeners were chosen as the design domain. Optimal material density distributions of the stiffeners were obtained at different mass fraction. The finite element model of the optimal stiffened panel was built to reanalyze the dynamic properties and responses. An increase in the relative rate of change in the fundamental frequency versus mass was observed between before and after the optimization