Manipulation of topologically optimized structures using graphic statics. (15th January 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Radhi, Ali; Iacobellis, Vincent; Behdinan, Kamran
• Is Part Of: Materials & design. Volume 198(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-01-15
• Subjects: Topology Optimization -- Graphic Statics -- SIMP -- reciprocal diagrams -- lightweight -- FEM; Materials -- Periodicals; Engineering design -- Periodicals; Matériaux -- Périodiques; Conception technique -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 620.11
• DOI: 10.1016/j.matdes.2020.109286
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0264-1275

Abstract

Abstract: A combined topology optimization-graphic static approach is presented in this paper for manipulation and generation of equilibrium lightweight structures. Topology optimization is an effective tool for designing lightweight structures and truss-based designs. Graphic statics is also a powerful platform for truss-based designs and, more importantly, manipulation of such designs to satisfy pre-defined structural/load constraints. This work proposes coupling topology optimization and graphic statics in a sequential framework to take advantage of both methods in generating truss-based designs and offering a way to manipulate such structures without breaking the global equilibrium state and reducing truss forces. After post-processing and structural manipulation, results have shown structures with a uniform load distribution on all members. Optimized structures show an allowable load distribution manipulation and a significant reduction in member loads through form/force algorithms, presenting results with up to 4 and 100 times reduced maximum loads under the same state of global equilibrium. The work is essential in producing structures that avoid critical loads while having arbitrary load/boundary conditions that cannot be solved using existing methods. Graphical abstract: Unlabelled Image Highlights: Combined Topology Optimization (TO) and Graphic Statics (GS) for generalized structural domains. Sequential coupling that allowed the generation and manipulation of form and internal force states. Load reduction of Topology Optimization structures up to 100 times less truss load distribution. Produced structures with arbitrary load/boundary conditions for GS and avoids critical loads in TO. TO+GS avoids complex stiffness/load analyses in a form/force equilibrium-conserved design.