Topology Optimization of Tensegrity Structures Considering Buckling Constraints

Abstract

This paper proposes a general approach for topology optimization of tensegrity structures. The optimization problem is formulated in the framework of a mixed-integer linear programming. Compared with previous approaches, more practical issues such as member overlapping, strut buckling, displacement limits, and multiple load cases are considered in the proposed approach. The member connectivities, internal forces, and cross-sectional areas are used as independent variables. The total weight of the final structure is used as the objective function. The maximum allowed number of struts connected to each node, the maximum allowed number of cross-sectional sizes for each type of members, and the minimum number of nodes used in the final structure can be actively controlled. A novel constraint formulation is proposed to avoid the member overlapping problem. Numerical examples are carried out to verify the proposed approach. The tensegrity structures found by the proposed approach are much more suitable for practical applications, and the approach can be used as a general generator for new types of tensegrity structures for specific application scenarios.