Abstract: Topological optimization technology of continuum structures is extended to compliant mechanism designs. A kind of explicit updating scheme of design variables is worked out based on variable density method and optimality criteria. A new multi-criteria formulation is proposed for optimal topology design of compliant mechanisms using artificial spring model and dummy load method, in which the mechanical efficiency of mechanism problems and stiffness of structure problems are both involved. Sensitivity analysis of objective function is performed by applying adjoint sensitivity analysis method. Numerical examples have been presented for demonstration of the effectiveness of the proposed approaches. The influences of some optimal parameters upon the resulting mechanisms are discussed and the reasonable value scopes have been suggested. Prototype manufacturing methodology is also employed to manufacture the typical compliant mechanism to prove the validation of the conceptual design.

Key words: Multi-criteria, Compliant mechanism, Optimality criteria, Topology optimization, Variable density method