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Published January 2010 | public
Journal Article

Multi-objective optimization of free-form grid structures

Abstract

Computational modeling software facilitates the creation of any surface geometry imaginable, but it is not always obvious how to create an efficient grid shell structure on a complex surface. This paper presents a design tool for synthesis of optimal grid structures, using a Multi-Objective Genetic Algorithm to vary rod directions over the surface in response to two or more load cases. A process of grid homogenization allows the tool to be rapidly applied to any grid structure consisting of a repeating unit cell, including quadrilateral, triangular and double layer grids. Two case studies are presented to illustrate the successful execution of the optimization procedure.

Additional Information

© 2009 Springer-Verlag. Received: 20 October 2008; revised: 22 December 2008; accepted: 7 January 2009; published online: 7 February 2009. We would like to acknowledge the financial support of the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and of Buro Happold.

Additional details

Created:
August 21, 2023
Modified:
October 19, 2023