Dariusz Bojczuk

On optimal design of supports in beam and frame structures

An algorithm of optimal design of supports including their number, position and stiffness is proposed. The number of supports constitute topological design parameters, their positions correspond to configuration parameters. Both, elastic and rigid supports are considered and the optimization is aimed to minimize the total structure cost. The topology bifurcation points correspond to generation of new supports. The topological sensitivity derivative is used in deriving the optimality conditionsThe optimization procedure provides number of supports, their position and stiffness of both supports and beam segments.

Optimal topology and configuration design of trusses with stress and buckling constraints

A heuristic algorithm for optimal design of trusses is presented with account for stress and buckling constraints. The design variables are constituted by cross-sectional areas, configuration of nodes and the number of nodes and bars. Similarly to biological growth models, it is postulated that the structure evolves with the characteristic size parameter and the “bifurcation” of topology occurs with the generation of new nodes and bars in order to minimize the cost function. The first-order sensitivity derivatives provide the necessary information on topology variation and the optimality conditions for configuration and cross-sectional parameters.

Optimal Design of Trusses with Account for Topology Variation

Abstract In this paper, a heuristic algorithm is presented for optimal design of trusses with varying cross-sectional parameters, configuration of nodes, and number of nodes and bars. The algorithm provides new nodes and bars at some states and for the optimal truss configuration. It is assumed that the structure evolves with the overall size parameter and a “bifurcation” of topology occurs with the generation of new nodes, in order to minimize the cost function. Both displacement and stress constraints can be introduced in the optimization procedure.

Sensitivity Analysis of Truss and Frame Structures in Critical States

ABSTRACT Truss and frame structures are considered at their critical states, i.e., bifurcation or limit points. When design parameters vary, the critical points evolve and the respective critical loads are modified. This paper is concerned with sensitivity analysis of critical loads with respect to cross-sectional and configuration parameters. The effect of redistribution during the prebuckling state is considered.