Topology optimization of truss structures considering local buckling stability

Abstract

This paper proposes the double-layer optimization algorithm to solve the truss topology problem with bar local buckling constraints. With this algorithm, the constraints on the local buckling are treated as linear functions of the optimized variables, which ensures efficient computation. In addition, two practical algorithms are proposed to solve the problems of the existence of transient hinges and the difficulty in matching the bar sections with standard sections. In addition, the topology optimization plug-in, named Topaz, is developed in this paper in the Rhino-Grasshopper parametric modeling platform to facilitate rapid model building. Finally, numerical examples show that the optimization results satisfy the requirements of strength, local buckling, and slenderness ratio of the bar, which demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.