FreeTO vs OpenLSTO

FreeTO is free, open-source MATLAB software for initializing, optimizing, and post-processing free-form 3D topology optimization problems. It accepts STL files for a design domain and load-carrying subdomains, together with mesh controls and a target volume fraction. A structured hexahedral mesh is used, and optimized structures have smooth boundaries. Inputs can define supports, force magnitudes, up to nine additional load cases, and regions that must remain unchanged. SIMP is the documented default optimization method, and SEMDOT is also supported. Topologies can be mirrored across up to three specified symmetry planes. Results include compliance, volume fraction, density arrays, element counts, optimization histories, visual topology displays, and an optional STL file. Sample problems cover a GE bracket, airplane bracket, human hand model, and quadcopter. The repository uses an MIT license and other open-source codes. Its available optimizer is optimality criteria; the MMA implementation is commented out, with code available by email request.

OpenLSTO is open-source C++ software for structural topology optimization using a level set method. It seeks to minimize compliance, or maximize stiffness, within a volume constraint in a two-dimensional design domain. Developed and maintained by researchers at UC San Diego and Cardiff University, the described first light version is limited to that 2D problem. It runs through command-line arguments in a terminal; simple serial cases without external libraries can be compiled and executed with a C++ compiler. OpenLSTO produces.vtk solution files that ParaView can read, so users need a data visualization tool for post-processing. The project favors in-house components where possible and is available under the Apache 2.0 license. It runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows, with repository-clone and ZIP download options. The software is free: the OpenLSTO plan is free. The project says expanded capabilities using externally provided software are planned for a more advanced version.