Optimal Design Evolution with Finite Topology Variations

摘要

The method of optimal design of structures by finite topology modifications is presented in the paper. This approach is similar to growth models of biological structures, but now topology modification is described by the finite variation of a topological parameter. The conditions for introduction of topology modification and method for determination of finite values of topological parameters characterising the modified structure are discussed in the paper. The presented approach is applied to the optimal design of truss, beam and frame structures. For trusses, the heuristic algorithm of bar exchanges is proposed for minimisation of the global compliance subject to material volume constraint. Also, the optimal design problem for beam and frame structures with their elastic or rigid supports, aimed at minimising the structure cost for specified global compliance, is considered.