Topology Optimization of a Cableway Pylon with Assessment of Uncertain Loading

Abstract

AbstractTopology optimization is an effective numerical tool to design high‐performance, efficient and economical lightweight structures. The objectives of this work are threefold: development of an open‐source large‐scale three‐dimensional topology optimization framework, assessment of uncertain loading on optimal topology and validation on large‐scale engineering example. We introduce the cableway pylon design problem [1] developing the load case and boundary conditions supported by data based on an existing structure and provided by an industry partner. The resulting lattice‐truss‐like topology agrees with the loading conditions and model characteristics. The effects of uncertain loading on the optimal compliance is investigated per [2].