Zhang Ailin

The shape optimization design of prestressed cable-truss structure based on evolutionary method of nodes

Publisher Summary The chapter discusses the shape optimization design of a prestressed cable-truss structure based on the evolutionary method of nodes. The shape optimization mathematical model of prestressed cable-truss structures is founded, and its design variables includes three kinds of design variables: cable pretension force, cross-section size, and element-node coordinates. To solve the problem, the design variables are divided into two subspaces: the first is cable pretension force value and cross-section size optimization space; and the second is shape optimization space. The first subspace considers two-stage design and presents a new solution method, whereas the second subspace adopts an evolutionary node shift method. The example presented in the chapter indicates that the method has the merit that structural weight reduces gradually without stiffness decrease and the structural shape works up to the optimal status in the optimization design of prestressed cable-truss structures.