Approximate geometric non-linear analysis in topology optimization: A novel kind of structural analysis for topology optimization of finite range compliant mechanisms

Density-based topology optimization, when used to design structures that show geometrical non-linear behaviour, currently faces computational effort and stability issues. These issues are caused by the iterative method used in geometric non-linear structural analysis. On top of taking much computational effort to complete, this method encounters...

Steering towards Stiffness: A preliminary analysis method for local deformations in a yacht structure caused by wave-induced loads

The superyacht industry faces an increasing trend of larger dimensions, more open spaces, larger hull openings and more exotic shapes. This puts more effort on the structural design and especially for superyacht longitudinal stiffness is important, since the luxurious interior and delicate systems installed in a superyachts are not allowed to...

Steel–Concrete–Steel Sandwich Immersed Tunnels For Large Spans

Traditional reinforced concrete tunnels show limits regarding large spans in the transverse direction. There was a lack of knowledge whether the steel-concrete-steel (SCS) sandwich tunnel can be a solution for tunnels with extreme large spans. Research was needed to understand the structural response of a large span SCS tunnel to the load...

Structural analysis of CLT walls in façades of a multistory building

This thesis report provides an analysis of the structural behavior of façades made of CLT panels with openings. These openings will have a significant influence on the transfer of forces in the panels, as well as the stiffness of the façade. The connections required to transfer the forces between the panels are designed. Deformations of the...

Modelling, analysis and verification of the biological coherent feedforward loop network

The world of molecular biology is composed by a complex network of interactions that are analogous to electric circuits. They govern the functions required for life, from metabolism to locomotion. In these networks, the presence of network motifs were identified, recurring elements supposedly kept by evolution. One of them is called the...

Bicycle and pedestrian bridge for the circular economy: Technical and sustainability assessment

The aim of this thesis is to present a design for a bicycle and pedestrian bridge which meets the requirements of Circular Economy; by incorporating strategies such as design for disassembly and modularity a structure is created which improves upon the long-term value of existing bridges. Circular Economy has in recent years begun to replace the...

Patterned Grid-shell: Designing a method to analyze and compare grid-shells influenced by traditional lattice patterns of north Asia

This thesis aims to explore various possibilities in grid-structures by introducing atypical line geometries and examine its feasibility in a built environment. The proposition is derived from the larger purpose of adapting native design characteristics in modern built environment. Focusing on the Asian context, one of the essential...

StructuralComponents7.0: A study of rigid frames behaviour and a computational tool prototype for the early design of mid-rise buildings

During the early stages of the construction process of a building, the potential impact of design decisions is at its greatest. One of the reasons is the lack of computational tools at these stages. The main objective of this research project was the expansion of StructuralComponents by the development of a parametric real-time computational...

Methods for improving the computational performance of sequentially linear analsysis

The numerical simulation of brittle failure with nonlinear finite element analysis (NLFEA) remains a challenge due to robustness issues. These problems are attributed to the softening material behaviour and the iterative nature of the Newton-Raphson type methods used in NLFEA. However, robust numerical simulations become increasingly important,...

Integrated computational approach for the generation and preliminary structural analysis of woven structures during the early design stage

The role of the architect as a “master builder”, or someone who possessed a deep knowledge about the materials and ways to use them, has recently disappeared in favour of technical specialisation. The distancing of the architect from the actual construction site coincides with the emergence of digital design environments that provide seemingly...

A predictive view on Durbans flood safety: The Golden Mile protected in style

Durban is the third largest city of South-Africa, located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal. The city suffers from severe floods from time to time, finding its cause in both the Indian ocean as well as the Umgeni river. The eThekwini municipality wishes a better insight in the occurrence of these floods and searches for a structural solution to...