TECHNICAL PAPERS
May 1, 1998

Continuum Topology Optimization for Concept Design of Frame Bracing Systems

Publication: Journal of Structural Engineering
Volume 124, Issue 5

Abstract

Discrete ground structure topology optimization design methods have to date received considerable attention in structural engineering. An alternative class of structural topology optimization methods, which have not yet received much attention in structural engineering, but which have undergone considerable development in the past decade, are the so-called continuum formulations. In this work, a continuum structural topology optimization formulation is presented and applied to the concept design optimization of structural bracing systems that are needed to stiffen tall structures against sidesway under lateral-wind and seismic-type loading. Although demonstrated here in the context of these specific design examples, continuum structural topology optimization methods are believed to hold potential as a design tool for a wide range of civil engineering type structures. A variety of continuum topology design formulations, including static compliance minimization and eigenvalue optimization, are explored, and solution parameters are varied to show that a number of design possibilities can be realized as solutions.

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Information & Authors

Information

Published In

Go to Journal of Structural Engineering
Journal of Structural Engineering
Volume 124Issue 5May 1998
Pages: 541 - 550

History

Published online: May 1, 1998
Published in print: May 1998

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Authors

Affiliations

Anand R. Mijar
Res. Asst., Dept. of Civ. and Envir. Engrg., Univ. of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242-1527.
Colby C. Swan, Member, ASCE,
Asst. Prof., Dept. of Civ. and Envir. Engrg., Univ. of Iowa, Iowa City, IA.
Jasbir S. Arora, Member, ASCE,
Prof., Dept. of Civ. and Envir. Engrg., Univ. of Iowa, Iowa City, IA.
Iku Kosaka
Res. Asst., Dept. of Civ. and Envir. Engrg., Univ. of Iowa, Iowa City, IA.

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