Optimizing Reinforcement Layout in Concrete Design Considering Constructability (original) (raw)

Structural topology optimization is increasingly being used to remove the guesswork in identifying natural force flow paths for reinforced concrete and prestressed concrete, particularly for complex 3D design domains. Tension and compressive forces that follow the principle stress trajectories, i.e., ties and struts, are automatically identified with topology optimization using a formulation that minimizes strain energy, or equivalently that minimize crack widths. While a useful alternative to trial-and-error process of generating strut-and-tie models (STM), the approach falls short of design objectives as it neglects constructability and rebar detailing, which is often the governing cost. This paper uses a new advancement in topology optimization for addressing constructability issues by considering both material and construction costs. By assigning different construction costs for each tension tie (rebar or prestressing), the placement of steel can be controlled to a large extent ...