Optimization of Frame Structures with Kinematical Indeterminacy for Optimum Folding

Abstract

The principle of folding analysis of frame structures with kinematical indeterminacy is widely used in the field of engineering. However, the design process of the efficient configuration for spatial structures in three-dimensional space is still a crucial problem. This paper presents a new methodology for finding the optimal folding strategy for frame structures, which is established on the basis of the generalized inverse theory and genetic algorithm (GA). Foldable structures are generated by inserting additional hinges into the appropriate locations of the spatial structures. Several numerical examples of spatial frame structures are analyzed using the proposed method. The results demonstrate that the proposed method is able to obtain the optimal foldable structures that have both high folding efficiency and a relatively simple folding mechanism. The characteristics of the obtained optimal results are discussed. The feasibility of this approach is demonstrated by the application of finding the optimal results of the spatial structures with several fundamental geometries.