Abstract
In this paper, the traction method is applied to shape optimization of frame structures. The traction method was proposed by Azegami, but in the present method, the sensitivity analysis is different from Azegami's one. The compliance of structure is chosen for objective function, and the coordinates of all nodes of beam elements are chosen for design variables. The method of sensitivity analysis is similar to a method used in topology optimization, but in this case the sensitivity of coordinate transformation matrix and length of elements is necessary. The effectiveness of the present method is verified by comparing with methods using SLP or CONLIN. Several numerical examples of 2-D frame structures are shown to demonstrate the effectiveness of the present method.
