Stress-based topology optimization using BESO method with incremental structural nonlinear analysis

Abstract

To enhance the applicability of optimization methods in civil engineering, particularly for structural members utilizing cement-based materials like concrete, this study introduces a stress-based topology optimization approach employing the Bi-directional Evolutionary Structural Optimization (BESO) method in conjunction with incremental structural nonlinear analysis. The primary objective of this method is to minimize the peak equivalent stress experienced by the structural components. It relies on the utilization of the p-norm condensation function to approximate the peak equivalent stress, alongside the establishment of sensitivity through the adjoint method. This method has demonstrated its aptness in optimizing structures containing highly nonlinear material constituents. By configuring the p-value within a specified range of 4–6 during the optimization process, consistent achievement of solutions aligned with the predefined objectives, based on element sensitivity, is feasible. This sensitivity is derived by applying a filter to the initial sensitivity calculated from the stress outcomes of the incremental structural nonlinear analysis. Subsequently, the data is meticulously filtered to procure a more robust and dependable solution that aligns more closely with the overarching optimization objective.