Connecting architecture and engineering through structural topology optimization

Optimal analytical Michell frame structures have been extensively used as benchmark examples in topology optimization, including truss, frame, homogenization, density and level-set based approaches. However, as we will point out, partly the interpretation of Michell's structural continua as discrete frame structures is not accurate and partly, it turns out that limiting structural topology to frame-like structures is a rather severe design restriction and results in structures that are quite far from being stiffness optimal. The paper discusses the interpretation of Michell's theory in the context of numerical topology optimization and compares various topology optimization results obtained with the frame restriction to cases with no design restrictions. For all examples considered, the true stiffness optimal structures are composed of sheets (2D) or closed-walled shell structures (3D) with variable thickness. For optimization problems with one load case, numerical results in two and three dimensions indicate that stiffness can be increased by up to 80% when dropping the frame restriction. For simple loading situations, studies based on optimal microstructures reveal theoretical gains of +200%. It is also demonstrated how too coarse design discretizations in 3D can result in un-

show abstract

“…For aesthetic reasons Michell-like structures have also been used in architectural relations, c.f. Beghini et al (2014).…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

On the (non-)optimality of Michell structures

Sigmund

Aage

Andreassen

2016

Struct Multidisc Optim

144

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

show abstract

“…Form optimization is therefore a consistent research field: usual approaches include cost-evaluation, glazing properties, heat losses (Granadeiro et al, 2013). In this sense, many approaches are keeping into account geometry together with structural properties, in order to optimize use of materials, and to provide light structures (Beghini, Beghini, Katz, Baker, & Paulino, 2014;Rozvany, 2009;Sigmund, 2000), or considering solar radiation gain and efficiency (Fallahtafti, R., Mahdavinejad, 2015;Yi, H., Srinivasan, R.S., Braham, 2015;Yi, Y.K., Malkawi, 2012;Zhang, L., Zhang, L., Wang, 2016).…”

Section: Form and Structure Optimizationmentioning

confidence: 99%

A BIM-based approach to façade cladding optimization: geometrical, economic, and production-control in a DfMA perspective

Giuda¹,

Giana²,

Masera³

et al. 2019

Proceedings of the 2019 European Conference on Computing in Construction

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

The goal of this paper is providing a methodology properly supporting façade optimization in a DfMA (Design for Manufacturing and Assembly) perspective. DfMA has proven to facilitate offsite manufacturing, lowering costs and improving speed and quality of construction, especially combined with BIM strategies. A BIM-based methodology can help in setting parameters for the proper optimization of the façade, balancing production related needs and design requirements. The proposed method allows the exploration of alternatives (known as Design Optioneering) to optimize the choice of façade elements. This method is based on a mathematical algorithm and script including parameters related to geometry, production waste management and designer's needs. The proposed methodology has been tested on a newly built school in Northern Italy.

show abstract

“…Fortunately, structural topology optimization is an efficient way to portray the most favourable path to deliver load and then form reasonable initial structure configuration. Beghini et al discussed building configuration using structural topology optimization. The optimized bracing configuration has also been concerned using topology optimization.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Bracing configuration and seismic performance of reinforced concrete frame with brace

Qiao

Han

Zhou

2017

Struct Design Tall Spec Build

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

Summary Brace has been used to improve structural seismic performance in reinforced concrete (hereafter called RC) frame extensively. However, the reasonable bracing configurations were not highlighted. And the brace buckling was not considered. Bracing configurations and seismic performance of RC frame with brace are studied in this paper. First, optimized bracing configurations of entire structures and 1‐story 1‐span structures are derived by topology optimization using truss‐like material model. Next, the structure models are simulated in OpenSees. Moreover, different bracing configurations are employed. Last, seismic performance and seismic response of RC frame structures with brace are discussed using static nonlinear analysis and dynamic time–history analysis, and brace buckling is considered. The numerical results indicate that more details for manufacturing or constructing can be presented by bracing configuration using truss‐like model. Further, the increase of structural strength and stiffness is more advisable in bracing configuration using topology optimization (hereafter called TPB), which corresponds to optimized result using entire structure than other configurations. The optimized bracing configuration based on 1‐story 1‐span structure is also beneficial within the prescribed conditions. Moreover, the brace buckling can decrease both strength and stiffness, and the buckling can also aggravate the damage extent than the brace without buckling.

show abstract

Connecting architecture and engineering through structural topology optimization

Cited by 169 publications

References 62 publications

On the (non-)optimality of Michell structures

On the (non-)optimality of Michell structures

A BIM-based approach to façade cladding optimization: geometrical, economic, and production-control in a DfMA perspective

Bracing configuration and seismic performance of reinforced concrete frame with brace

Contact Info

Product

Resources

About