Finite topology variations in optimal design of structures

The method of optimal design of structures by finite topology modification is presented in the paper. This approach is similar to growth models of biological structures, but in the present case, topology modification is described by the finite variation of a topological parameter. The conditions for introducing topology modification and the method for determining finite values of topological parameters characterizing the modified structure are specified. The present approach is applied to the optimal design of truss, beam, and frame structures. For trusses, the heuristic algorithm of bar exchange is proposed for minimizing the global compliance subject to a material volume constraint and it is extended to volume minimization with stress and buckling constraints. The optimal design problem for beam and frame structures with elastic or rigid supports, aimed at minimizing the structure cost for a specified global compliance, is also considered.