Abstract
A design technique to determine an optimum layout of structural continuum, which gives an absolute optimum of truss structures under alternative given loading and supporting conditions, is proposed by using a concept of Michell structures. The structural continuum is analyzed by the finite element method of a linear triangular element, in which obliquely crossing truss members are distributed uniformly and continuously. These members in each element are arranged into optimum directions by Davidon-Fletcher-Powell's method to minimize the weight of structural continuum subjected to the stress constraints, the allowable limits of which are different each other in tension and in compression.
The technique is applied to determine the optimum layouts of truss which consists of two members and of cantilever structure under alternative loadings.
