A Comprehensive Review of Explicit Topology Optimization Based on Moving Morphable Components (MMC) Method

Explicit topology optimization method is attracting more and more attention in recent years due to its obvious advantages. Among them, the most vigorous explicit topology optimization method is moving morphable components (MMC) method. In this paper, the current status of explicit topology optimization based on MMC method is described comprehensively by reviewing some significant progress made in the last decades. Firstly, the basic characteristics, principles and advantages of MMC method are introduced. Then some problem formulations of MMC method are described, with emphasis on different component descriptions and different topology optimization problems with their problem mathematical formulations. In order to elaborate how to implement MMC method, the implementation process of MMC method, the numerical technology (such as finite element analysis, optimization solver, sensitivity analysis), and the feasible implementation methods are analyzed. The optimization effect influencing factors of MMC method and related research status are also concerned. Finally, the applications of MMC topology optimization method in different fields and some future research works of MMC method are summarized. It is demonstrated that although MMC method has achieved obvious research results, there are still many aspects that need further research to expand its applications. This research can provide a comprehensive guidance for the initial contact of MMC method, and also can provide knowledge index for further research.