Author(s)

B. Verbeeck, J. Van Steirteghem, W. P. De Wilde & Ph. Samyn

Abstract

The theory of Morphological Indicators (MI) has been successfully used to optimize a range of structures analytically for a chosen criterion [1]. These structures are mainly statically determined and subjected to simple load cases. When considering more complex structural systems and/or load cases, analytical techniques are inadequate and therefore numerical techniques must be used. In this paper a short general introduction of the MI is given and the current results are presented. The bottlenecks of analytical technique are discussed as more complex (hybrid) structures and load cases are considered. It is demonstrated how semi-numerical and numerical techniques can be combined with the MI to enable the optimization of these complex load cases and structures in the early design stages. Finally some examples are presented. 1 Introduction The Morphological Indicators (MI) are design tools developed by Samyn [1] allowing the optimization of structures for a chosen criterion (volume, stiffness) at an early design stage using a limited number of parameters. The Indicator of Volume, W, allows the comparison of the volume of material used of different structural systems designed to transmit the same load. The Displacement Indicator, D, compares the stiffness of different structural systems. The analytical expressions of both W and D have been established for trusses, beams, arches, cables, cable stayed structures, masts and frames subjected to a limited number

Keywords