Macro-element approach for topology optimization of trusses using a ground structure method

In this thesis, the generation of initial ground structures for generic domains in two and three dimensions are discussed. Two methods of discretization are compared: Voronoi-based discretizations and structured quadrilateral discretizations. In addition, a simple and effective member generation approach is proposed: the Macro-element approach; which can be implemented with both types of discretization. The features of the approach are discussed: efficient generation of initial ground structures; reduction in matrix bandwidth for global stiffness matrix; finer control of bar connectivity; and reduction of overlapped bars. Numerical examples are presented which display the features of the proposed approach, and highlight the comparison with literature results and traditional ground structure generation methods.

Name thesis:degree_name

M.S.

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Civil Engineering

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2014

Author dc:creator

• Zhang, Xiaojia

Contributors dc:contributor

• Paulino, Glaucio H.

• Topology Optimization of Trusses
• Ground Structure Method
• Structured Quadrilateral Element
• Voronoi-based Element
• Macro-element Approach

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2014 Xiaojia Zhang

Language dc:language

en

Handle dc:identifier

http://hdl.handle.net/2142/49727

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/49727