Utilizing of Structural Topology Optimization Method to Achieve Form in Architectural Design

Topology optimization is among contemporary approaches introduced to connect Architecture and Structural Engineering through simultaneous form-finding of the Architecture and Structural design. It is among various optimizations methods in structural engineering, which has been recently adopted in the architectural design process due to its direct effect on the overall form of the structure. This research aims to outline the potentials of this method within the realm of the design process as a framework.

Given that this research is performed using Finite Element modelling, at first, the theoretical framework of TO within FE software is described briefly and practically. Further on, different examples of the application of this method for architectural design is introduced, and the procedure of utilizing the method within architectural design process by use of related software and algorithms is described.

Throughout the Architectural design with TO, the effect of the initial design decisions on the resulting forms becomes somewhat unclear; for this purpose, morphology diagrams have been provided for cases similar to the design problem to facilitate the initial decision making of the designer at the initial stages of the design. Morphology diagrams, describing the effect of parameters related to boundary conditions for similar cases, make the design process transparent.

in this paper, a well-defined framework of the TO process and the required information to apply this method in the architectural design process are presented, and its application in the case study of an urban pedestrian bridge is described.