Truss layout design and optimization using a generative synthesis approach

This paper describes a generative methodology for optimum design of truss structures. The novelty of the proposed method is its combination of generative design synthesis methods with conventional gradient-based optimization and simulation models. This combination is able to achieve optimal topologies and shapes for cable trusses under various constraints: stress, displacement, stability. Furthermore, manufacturing issues properly limit the generated solutions. A graph grammar is used to define different topologies for a given load problem. The effectiveness of the method is checked by solving a variety of available test problems found in the literature as well as several new three-dimensional solutions. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.