Topology optimization of periodic Mindlin plates

Periodic structures exhibit unique dynamic characteristics that make them act as tunable mechanical filters for wave propagation. As a result, waves can propagate along the periodic structures only within specific frequency bands called the ‘pass bands’ and wave propagation is completely blocked within other frequency bands called the ‘stop bands’ or ‘band gaps’. The spectral width of these bands can be optimized using topology optimization. In this paper, topology optimization is used to maximize the fundamental natural frequency of Mindlin plates while enforcing periodicity. A finite element model for Mindlin plates is presented and used along with an optimization algorithm that accounts for the periodicity constraint in order to determine the optimal topologies of plates with various periodic configurations. The obtained results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed design optimization approach in generating periodic plates with optimal natural frequency and wide stop bands. The presented approach can be invaluable design tool for many structures in order to control the wave propagation in an attempt to stop/confine the propagation of undesirable disturbances.