BRIDGE STRUCTURE TOPOLOGY OPTIMIZATION WITH MULTIPLE CONSTRAINTS

Based on ESO (Evolutionary Structural Optimization) method, a structural topology optimization method for bridge structures is presented in this paper. Two types of bridges including arch and cable-stayed bridges are optimized under various loading conditions with both stress and displacement constraints. Two performance index formulae are introduced to determine the optimum topology design. In addition, a refined mesh design scheme is proposed herein in an attempt to improve the details of the final design more efficiently and economically without resorting to a complete analysis of a finer mesh. Furthermore, cable-stayed bridges are also optimized with stress, displacement, frequency constraints incorporating the nibbling technique. The applicability, simplicity and effectiveness of the present method are demonstrated through the design optimization of various bridges.