Distributed loads in truss topology optimization

1. Abstract In this work, a method for incorporating distributed loads in truss topology optimization is presented. The ground structure is supplemented with overlapping members between each pair of nodes subject to the distributed load, and binary variables controlling the existence of the members and nodes are introduced. Equivalent nodal loads are computed for all members under the line load. The binary variables are used to switch off the equivalent nodal loads of vanishing members from the equilibrium equations. Linear constraints in the binary variables disallow overlapping members from the optimum solution. The proposed method is employed in a linear mixed-integer formulation of minimum weight truss topology optimization problem. The effects of the methods are demonstrated on a roof truss design problem. The example problem illustrates the important feature of the method that allows grouns structure nodes under line loads to vanish. 2.