Diagonalization strategies in search of structural optimization

Abstract

Topology optimization has traditionally been used in continuous geometries, but due to the widespread presence of discrete structures it becomes necessary to present new methods. The following text is committed to achieve the topology optimization of diagonalized structures employing new tools at our disposal, with application to a singular structure, the Seville April Fair gateways. To facilitate this task we propose first generating these spatial meshes automatically by the parametric design software Grasshopper, so that enables the immediate generation of different diagonalization configurations for further evaluation by the analysis software SAP2000. Then, using the 3D physical simulator Kangaroo is sought, in a systematic way, optimized diagonalization proposals. The optimization process is to preserve the elements that satisfy the condition (final length -initial length) > initial length/X, which are those that present greater deformation, and therefore, those who suffer a significant axial force. This process has considered twelve progressive steps, with different values of X, making it possible to detect the most appropriate direction of diagonalization.