Multi-material topology optimization considering joint stiffness using a two-step filtering approach

In this paper, a new method is presented to concurrently determine the structural layout and joint interface during the multi-material topology optimization (MMTO) process. Although the development of additive manufacturing techniques allows the fabrication of multi-material structures for soft materials with graded properties, joint materials for joining metals or composites are still needed. This paper proposes a novel material interpolation...