Optimization-based strut-and-tie model generation for reinforced concrete structures under multiple load conditions

Strut-and-Tie modelling (STM) has been widely applied to design D-regions of reinforced concrete structures. For economic and environmental reasons there is a need for optimized Strut-and-Tie models. How to optimize Strut-and-Tie models considering multiple load combinations has not been investigated extensively in the literature. In order to...

Automated optimization-based generation and quantitative evaluation of Strut-and-Tie models

Strut-and-Tie modelling (STM) is a well-known approach to design D-regions in reinforced concrete structures. Because the STM method is based on lower-bound analysis, finding a suitable truss-analogy model is the most important aspect to guarantee good structural and economic performance of a resulting design. Continuum topology optimization ...

Compliant Fluidic Control Structures: Concept and synthesis approach

The concept and synthesis approach for planar Compliant Fluidic Control Structures (CFCSs), monolithic flexible continua with embedded functional pores, is presented in this manuscript. Such structures are envisioned to find application in biomedicine as tunable microfluidic devices for drug/nutrient delivery. The functional pores enlarge and...

CPV solar cell modeling and metallization optimization

Concentrated photovoltaics (CPV) has recently gained popularity due to its ability to deliver significantly more power at relatively lower absorber material costs. In CPVs, lenses and mirrors are used to concentrate illumination over a small solar cell, thereby increasing the incident light by several folds. This leads to non-uniform...

An improved stress recovery technique for low-order 3D finite elements

In this paper, we propose a stress recovery procedure for low-order finite elements in 3D. For each finite element, the recovered stress field is obtained by satisfying equilibrium in an average sense and by projecting the directly calculated stress field onto a conveniently chosen space. Compared with existing recovery techniques, the...

Bounds for decoupled design and analysis discretizations in topology optimization

Topology optimization formulations using multiple design variables per finite element have been proposed to improve the design resolution. This paper discusses the relation between the number of design variables per element and the order of the elements used for analysis. We derive that beyond a maximum number of design variables, certain sets...

Integrated front–rear-grid optimization of free-form solar cells

Free-form solar cells expand solar power beyond traditional rectangular geometries. With the flexibility of being installed on objects of daily use, they allow making better use of available space and are expected to bring in new possibilities of generating solar power in the coming future. In addition, their customizable shape can add to the...