The optimization of large trusses often leads to a nearly optimal solution, rather than a truly optimal design. In fact, the problem space for truss optimization grows exponentially with the size of the truss. Using the method of problem reduction, this paper demonstrates that truss optimization is in the set of NP-complete problems. Hence, the only practical techniques for solving the truss pr...

This paper introduces a reliability-based multi-objective design method for spatial truss structures. A multi-objective optimization problem has been defined considering three conflicting objective functions including truss weight, nodal deflection, and failure probability of the entire truss structure with design variables of cross sectional area of the truss members. The failure probability o...

Abstract The Truss Topology Design (TTD) problem deals with the selection of optimal configuration for pin-jointed trusses, in particular, the optimization of the connectivity of the nodes by the members, in which volume and/or compliance are minimized. In general, it is known that such truss structures are statically determinate and not redundantly rigid, that is, if just one member is damaged...

In this paper we propose an approach to solve multi-objective structural design problem using basic t-norm based fuzzy optimization programming technique. Here a planer truss structural model in fuzzy environment has been developed. In this structural model formulation, the objective functions are the weight of the truss and the vertical deflection of loaded joint; the design variables are the ...

Traditional truss design and analysis assumes pinned joints at the connections. Other design provisions recommend that the trusses be designed and analyzed as frame structures, with careful consideration of the stress, timber behavior, and joint response. A large body of knowledge has been compiled detailing truss behavior as it relates to member properties and responses. However, the modeling ...

This thesis explores novel parameterization concepts for large scale topology optimization that enables the use of evolutionary algorithms in large-scale structural design. Specifically, two novel parameterization concepts based on generative algorithms and Boolean random networks are proposed that facilitate systematic exploration of the design space while limiting the number of design variabl...

An automated design synthesis method is developed to design an airfoil with a reconfigurable shape, which can change from one type of geometry to another. A design synthesis method using unit truss approach and particle swarm optimization is presented. In the unit truss approach, unit truss is used as a new unit cell for mechanics analysis of cellular structures, including lightweight structure...

In the design of a mechanical structure, we’re interested in finding a general layout of the structure’s supporting frame that best supports some anticipated design loads. Often, the design of such supporting frames are addressed in ad-hoc ways, such as by complicated domain-specific heuristics [TTG05, DG01]. Our project targets the problem of designing a truss–a collection of bars rigidly atta...

Structural reliability theory allows structural engineers to take the random nature of structural parameters into account in the analysis and design of structures. The aim of this research is to develop a logical framework for system reliability analysis of truss structures and simultaneous size and geometry optimization of truss structures subjected to structural system reliability constraint....