Design of structural braced frames using group optimization

Though topology optimization has been applied to many fields, ranging from mechanical to aerospace engineering, more work must be done to tailor it to the needs of the structural engineer, especially in regards to the design of high-rise buildings. Thus, this work aims to improve its application to structural engineering by describing an integrated topology optimization approach involving continuum and discrete finite elements to design the lateral systems in structural braced frames for high-rise buildings. The approach is implemented using concurrent continuum finite elements and discrete beam/truss elements to simplify and improve the overall design process by creating optimal geometries for a given volume of material. For example, after an engineer develops a structural frame consisting of beams and columns sized for gravity loads, topology optimization on the continuum (e.g. quadrilateral) elements is used to create a conceptual design for the braces of the lateral system resulting in highly efficient structures. Several practical examples are demonstrated to show the importance and relevance of this work to the structural design industry.