Generation of structure concepts via 3D topology optimisation

Topology optimisation has been used for a new application that finds structure concepts for building spatial designs. This by a) transforming a spatial design in a uniform structural mass; b) loading the uniform structural mass with horizontal wind loads on each side and vertical live loads on the floors; and c) finding the most optimal mass distribution for minimum strain energy. A spatial design with square ground plan shows that bending moments, caused by wind loads, direct structural mass to the building outer edges, whereas live loads yield a localised mass distribution over the ground plan, similar to a column grid. This behaviour has been verified for circular ground plans as well. Latter plans indicate that the forming of a column grid is not caused by a discontinuous circumference (i.e. the corners) of a square ground plan. Future research will focus on the possible mechanisms of grid formation.