Simultaneous Topology and Size Optimization of 2D and 3D Trusses Using Evolutionary Structural Optimization with regard to Commonly Used Topologies

Abstract

One of many optimization techniques is the evolutionary structural optimization (ESO), based on the idea that an optimal structure can be achieved by gradually removing ineffectively used materials from the design domain. Production of a multistage optimization is often proposed to reach the best overall solution. In the first stage, the structure is optimized according to a topology criterion, and, in the second stage, sizing optimization is carried out. The efficiency of such an approach is questionable as a fixed topology, for the second stage optimization may not be the most favorable before sizing optimization is carried out. In this paper, the simultaneous topology and size optimization of trusses using the ESO algorithm are discussed. A number of numerical examples are presented to research capacity to achieve optimal solutions for a structural problem. The topology design of the initial design domain is based on commonly used designs for multistorey trusses constructed from straight members. Therefore, the cases are of a slender shape and made from a combination of presented internal designs. The case studies will present an evaluation to show whether the described optimization approach can be beneficial in structural design for the purpose of steel framework designs.