The fuzzy decision making technique is used to solve multiobjective topolog
y optimization problems in this paper. Minimizing compliance and maximizing
fundamental eigenvalue are two objectives pursued. Linear membership funct
ions are used for material constraint as well as eigenvalue objective. The
membership function for the objective of compliance is a nonlinear exponent
ially decaying function. Increasing the decaying rate puts more weight on t
he objective of compliance. The effect of different finite element types on
the topology is also explored. A numerical example using two different typ
es of finite elements is given to illustrate the approach. (C) 2000 Civil-C
omp Ltd. and Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.