STORX: An Open-Source Object-Oriented Framework for Shape and Topology Optimization in MATLAB

2026-06-15

AI Summary

This work addresses the lack of a unified, open-source, and modular platform for collaboratively exploring shape and topology optimization methods in both teaching and research. The authors present an object-oriented, MATLAB-based open-source framework that employs abstract base classes to define core interfaces, enabling seamless integration of parametric and level-set-based shape optimization alongside density-based, level-set, and topological sensitivity approaches to topology optimization. By directly mapping mathematical formulations to executable code, the framework allows users to extend objective functionals or constraints simply by deriving new classes without modifying the core implementation. Highly modular and reproducible, the framework bridges the gap between shape and topology optimization, offering a continuous research pathway. Its effectiveness and flexibility are demonstrated through diverse numerical examples in both educational and research contexts.

Abstract

This paper presents STORX: Shape and Topology Optimization for Research and Experimentation, an open-source MATLAB-based educational framework for learning and teaching computational design optimization. STORX provides a platform for parametric and level-set shape optimization, as well as topology optimization methods including density, level-set, and topological sensitivity approaches such as evolutionary and Pareto-tracing methods. All modules follow a consistent object-oriented structure and integrate visualization, sensitivity analysis, and finite element routines, enabling users to explore the continuum between shape and topology optimization in a transparent and reproducible manner. The code is designed to complement graduate-level coursework and independent research by emphasizing modularity and extensibility through a clear separation of intent. Core software interfaces are defined via abstract base classes, enabling new objective functionals and design/manufacturing constraints to be implemented by adding derived classes without modifying the core code. The paper also describes the software architecture and demonstrates how the framework maps mathematical formulations directly to executable code through a series of illustrative problems.

Problem

• shape optimization
• topology optimization
• computational design
• educational framework
• open-source

Innovation

• object-oriented framework
• shape and topology optimization
• level-set method
• modular architecture
• topological sensitivity