Designing compliant self-locking structures using topology optimization

This work presents a framework for designing self-locking 3D compliant structures using elasto-plastic topology optimization. Design updates are generated using the gradient-based method of moving asymptotes, while the material behavior is modeled under small strain elasto-plasticity. To accurately capture the Bauschinger effect that occur during reversed loading, kinematic hardening is a crucial component of the formulation. Unlike previous studies, our approach optimizes the unloaded and permanently deformed state, enabling the realization of self-locking functionality that relies on plastic deformation. Numerical results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in designing mechanisms with the desired self-locking behavior, highlighting its potential for practical applications.