Structural Optimization and Load Paths

Abstract

An optimization calculation is demonstrated that uses a new parameter U* which indicates load paths in structures. The optimized structure that realizes the most efficient load paths is compared with the conventional optimized structure that has the highest strength and stiffness. The two optimized structures for a simple rectangular plate have almost the same thickness distributions. While the present method optimizes only the load paths and does not intentionally produce structures having high strength or stiffness, it is notable that the structure obtained using the present load path optimization exhibits high strength and stiffness.