This book presents the topological derivative method through selected
examples, using a direct approach based on calculus of variations
combined with compound asymptotic analysis. This new concept in shape
optimization has applications in many different fields such as topology
optimization, inverse problems, imaging processing, multi-scale material
design and mechanical modeling including damage and fracture evolution
phenomena. In particular, the topological derivative is used here in
numerical methods of shape optimization, with applications in the
context of compliance structural topology optimization and topology
design of compliant mechanisms. Some exercises are offered at the end of
each chapter, helping the reader to better understand the involved
concepts.