Role of AM in the Development of Topologically Optimized Structures

Additive Manufacturing (AM) has played an important role in developing topologically optimized structures for various engineering applications. Compared with traditional designs, topologically optimized designs show considerably improved resistance against deformity and assist in the uniform distribution of stress. This results in lighter components without affecting their functionality. Sophisticated CAD software tools, particularly Autodesk Fusion 360 and Generative Design, are used by researchers to generate and improve designs. Topological algorithms are generally employed to create structures that can be optimized for material usage reduction, strength maximization, and structural integrity maintenance. AM favors customization and the use of AM reduces the time and cost involved in the manufacturing of topologically optimized structures. The findings reported in published work confirm that AM can produce intricate and topologically optimized structures conforming to industrial requirements at reduced costs. Hence, this chapter summarizes the benefits associated with using various AM techniques to produce topologically optimized structures.