An Introduction to the Topological Derivative Method

This book presents the topological derivative method through selected examples, using a direct approach based on calculus of variations combined with compound asymptotic analysis. This new concept in shape optimization has applications in many different fields such as topology optimization, inverse problems, imaging processing, multi-scale material design and mechanical modeling including damage and fracture evolution phenomena. In particular, the topological derivative is used here in numerical methods of shape optimization, with applications in the context of compliance structural topology optimization and topology design of compliant mechanisms. Some exercises are offered at the end of each chapter, helping the reader to better understand the involved concepts.