Rapid Prototyping for Structural Engineering: A Topology Optimization Approach

Abstract

From early civilization to now, architecture has influenced most structural designs, sometimes taking on the primary lead. Yet, as structural engineering is undeniably crucial to manifest architectural designs into reality, a design method that combines the aesthetic side of architecture with the practical and efficient side of engineering must be investigated. Topology optimization is a design method that fulfills this purpose. Despite how much research has been conducted in the field, topology optimization is still rather unutilized by the larger construction industry. One way to further advance the design method’s adoption is by observing how the form of a topology optimized structure may be received by the public, in which case, if it fulfills both an architect’s and engineer’s desires, it should be a viable approach. As a design method that aims to reduce material usage by optimizing material distribution, topology optimization is the epitome of an economic and efficient design method, addressing the engineering side. However, its architectural observation is somewhat limited. To study the aesthetical aspect, this thesis intends to create a topology optimized bridge to evaluate its form from an architectural perspective. This thesis finds that topology optimization does in fact create a synergistic relationship with architecture and engineering.