Topology optimization of micro–polar solids under dynamic actions

The topology optimization problem for micropolar solids subjected to dynamic loads is dealt with. Goal of the problem is the maximization of the minimum eigenfrequency of the body. This is achieved using a classical SIMP-like model to approximate the constitutive parameters of the micro-polar medium, whereas an ad hoc penalization is introduced for both the linear and the spin inertia to avoid the occurrence of undesired local modes. The robustness of the proposed procedure is investigated through numerical examples, and the mechanical features of the results obtained are also discussed for a wide range of material parameters. The numerical simulations show that the results are quite sensitive to the material characteristic length and the spin inertia term. The achieved layouts may differ significantly from conventional Cauchy–based solutions.