Yun-Fei
Fu

Additive Manufacturing, Topology Optimization, Composite Materials

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My research focuses on the topology optimization algorithm named SEMDOT and the optimization of metal and fiber-reinforced composite structures, with an emphasis on designing lightweight, high-performance components for additive manufacturing. I investigate the failure behavior and optimization of fiber-reinforced composites, exploring how material properties influence topology-optimized structures. Additionally, I study the additive manufacturing processes of metal and fiber-reinforced composites, particularly addressing the manufacturability challenges of complex, topology-optimized geometries. Key areas of my work include:

Additive Manufacturing – My research focuses on topology optimization, computational modeling, and process simulation to enhance structural efficiency and manufacturability. I developed the SEMDOT topology optimization algorithm to design self-supporting, lightweight structures with improved printability and mechanical performance. My work includes Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of metal and fiber-reinforced composites and process simulations for Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) to address challenges like residual stresses and warping. By integrating design for additive manufacturing (DfAM) principles, I optimize lattice structures, cellular materials, and functionally graded components, ensuring both performance and manufacturability.

Topology Optimization – My research focuses on developing and applying advanced optimization algorithms to design lightweight, high-performance structures. I am the principal developer of the SEMDOT algorithm, which generates smooth-edged topologies for manufacturing. My work includes non-penalized topology optimization and structural optimization of metal and fiber-reinforced composites.

Composite Materials – My research focuses on the simulation, optimization, and failure analysis of fiber-reinforced composites. I have investigated progressive damage modelling and developed automated calibration methods to improve the accuracy of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) simulations for composite structures. 

 

I have authored 11 peer-reviewed journal articles as the first author and co-authored seven additional journal papers. I have also actively contributed to the academic community as a reviewer for several reputed journals, including Virtual and Physical Prototyping, Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering, Composite Structures, Engineering Structures, Journal of Computational Design and Engineering, Computers and Structures, Advances in Engineering Software, Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance and Optimization and Engineering.