MAPPING CONSTRAINED SEARCH IN TRUSS SHAPE OPTIMIZATION

Abstract

This paper presents a novel practical approach to shape optimization of simple truss structures. The 10 bar truss problem was considered in its topology optimized form which uses only 6 bars in order to decrease the number of variables to be mapped. An identification of eligible solutions was created according to the shape and all optimization iterations were mapped in order to define zones in which one or more constraints would be exceeded. Results indicate that deviation from node coordinates from the optimal, in the wrong direction, can result in surpassing constrained limits of displacement and/or buckling. The significance of these results is namely practically oriented and has the goal of defining potential and possible tolerances in truss construction and an analysis of the errors which could occur in assembly. This research creates a completely new approach to analyzing truss structures which can perspectival make construction easier in practice and prevent potential consequences as well as influence the decrease of costs of the overall truss.