Architectural Form Finding and Computational Design of Tall Building Applying Topology Optimization against Lateral Loads

Abstract

The hierarchy of a building is created from the hermeneutics aspects changing from a typology to a topology paradigm. As tall buildings are growing rapidly, engineering science is experiencing developments such as the finite-element method. The present research creates a platform for architects using the topology optimization method as an assistant designer. This platform serves as a starter for a common language of these two professions in the early stages of design. Architects can use this platform to produce the final topological optimized form by defining their shape plans, lateral loads, height, and the target ratio of models as platform inputs. This paper highlights the importance of the bidirectional evolutionary structural optimization method simultaneously in architectural and structural contexts to reduce the total weight of the structure while keeping the displacement of the structure in an acceptable range. The reduction will be made by eliminating the structural material zones with lower stress with an effective method for achieving the structural efficiency of a tall building, considering architectural aspects.