Abstract
Topology optimization has been widely used for the optimal structure design for weight reduction and high performance. Since the result of three-dimensional topology optimization is represented by the discrete material distribution in finite elements, it is hard to interpret from a design point of view. In this paper, the method for interpreting three-dimensional topology optimization resuIt into a series of cross-sectional curve representation is proposed and interfaced with the existing CAD system for the practical use. The concept of node density and virtual grid is introduced to transform element density values into grid density and material boundaries in each cross section are identified based on the element volume rate to satisfy the amount of material specified in the original design intent. Design exampIes show that three-dimensional topology result can be converted into a form of curve CAD model and the seamless interface with CAD software can be achieved.