Topology optimization is an optimization process used in mature design phases that begins with a human-defined baseline CAD geometry. It uses algorithms like Solid Isotropic Material with Penalization (SIMP) or Level-Set methods to whittle away virtual material within a controlled design space to meet targets like minimum pressure drop or mass reduction. Conversely, generative design is an origination tool used in early conceptual phases. It explores a much wider design space based solely on boundary constraints and functional requirements, generating multiple novel alternatives rather than just subtracting from a single predefined shape.