A novel multi-material topology design automation algorithm for a customized MATLAB and Rhino-Grasshopper plugin with a generalized solid isotropic material with penalization

doi:10.1007/s10483-026-3391-9

Abstract

Abstract:

Topology optimization (TO) plays an increasingly pivotal role in contemporary structural engineering, particularly in architectural realms. Despite Grasshopper’s prevalence in architectural design, the seamless integration of structural optimization, especially with multiple materials, has remained a persistent challenge in prior research. To address this gap, this paper introduces a novel solution: Stag, a multi-material plugin for the Grasshopper ecosystem of Rhinoceros 3D. Stag effortlessly integrates multi-material analyses into workflow design by leveraging the generalized solid isotropic material with penalization (SIMP) algorithm. Tailored for architectural modeling, construction, and prototyping, Stag sets a new standard for comprehensive plugins in a familiar software environment. Moreover, this paper illustrates the seamless compatibility between Grasshopper and the generalized SIMP-based approach, utilizing MATLAB for optimization. This lays the foundation for the future development of intricate customized multi-material plugins. Designed with user-friendliness in mind, Stag provides architects and designers with an intuitive platform to efficiently optimize the material distribution within intricate structures. As part of our commitment to accessibility, the Stag plugin is freely accessible on the Food4Rhino platform, ensuring its widespread adoption and usability.

Key words: multiple materials, topology optimization (TO), generalized solid isotropic material with penalization (SIMP), Grasshopper plugin, Food4Rhino

2010 MSC Number:

O242.21

T. T. BANH, E. DAMTSAS, H. P. BAN, M. HERRMANN, D. LEE. A novel multi-material topology design automation algorithm for a customized MATLAB and Rhino-Grasshopper plugin with a generalized solid isotropic material with penalization. Applied Mathematics and Mechanics (English Edition), 2026, 47(6): 1363-1382.

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URL: https://www.amm.shu.edu.cn/EN/10.1007/s10483-026-3391-9

https://www.amm.shu.edu.cn/EN/Y2026/V47/I6/1363

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