Topology optimization of multi-scale structures: a review

Abstract Multi-scale structures, as found in nature (e.g., bone and bamboo), hold the promise of achieving superior performance while being intrinsically lightweight, robust, multi-functional. Recent years have seen a rapid development topology optimization approaches for designing multi-scale but field actually dates back to seminal paper by Bendsøe Kikuchi from 1988 (Computer Methods Applied Mechanics Engineering 71(2): pp. 197–224). In this review, we intend categorize existing approaches, explain principles each category, analyze their strengths applicabilities, discuss open research questions. The review associated analyses will hopefully form basis future exciting field.