Form Finding and Structural Optimization in Architecture Case study on the pedestrian bridge Pegasus

DOI: 10.5176/2301-394X_ACE13.115

Authors: Luca Frattari, Graziano Leoni

Abstract:

The paper explores structural optimization potentials in Architecture as a strategy for unique form finding. In a first section some lessons from nature are discussed pointing out the analogies with architectural structures. In a second section, after a brief overview of the topology optimization, a case study is proposed based on innovative design methodology: (i) finding of the architectural-structural form by using a topology optimization procedure; (ii) design and optimization of the structural elements; (iii) verification of the structure subjected to standard design actions. The procedure is applied to the case study of a pedestrian bridge 50 m long.

The obtained steel structure represents the first example of an organic-like architecture composed by hollow sections and retrieved by the application of topology optimization.

Keywords: form-finding, structural optimization, complex geometries, organic shapes.