A layout optimization based theoretical framework for the design of multi-component structural systems

Structural optimization methods for continuum structures have been focussed on the design of mainly single structural components. The design of multi-component structural systems is a relatively new area and is still not extensively researched. During the design process, it is a common practice to consider the design of the main structural components first and relegate connection design to a secondary role. This fails to recognize the fundamental influence of the connections on the performance of the structure as a whole. The main objective of this work is the extension of topology optimization based design methods from single structures to structural systems. One of the main components of this methodology is the modeling of structural connections and determination of their optimal locations. This is then combined with the topology optimization of structures to perform simultaneous topology optimization of components and connections. To address the issue of structural failure due to high stresses in the connections, consideration of connection loads in the design problem has also been investigated. All these capabilities result in a design tool for multi-component structural systems.