Abstract
Present paper proposes a topology optimization method of frame structures by using genetic algorithm (GA). In this method, the finite element with a spring having the bending rigidity is used. Through this element, it is possible to deal with trusses, rigid frames as well as semi-rigid frames, simultaneously. The authors have already proposed topology optimization methods fortruss and frame structures, where configurations, size and shape are dealt with as the design variables. In this paper, the connection information is also treated as the design variable, where two methods for expression of connection information are proposed; one is that of direct coding to genetic code and another is the combination method of plural fundamental stable elements. The detail of the proposed methodology is presented as well as the results of numerical examples that clearly show the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed scheme.
