Entropy-based method for topological optimization of truss structures

This paper presents an entropy-based topological optimization method for tr uss structures. To begin with, a group of variables which mean the density distribution of structural strain energy are introduced. By the variables, a bridge between the energy distribution and topological optimization of tr usses is constructed so that the problem of searching for optimal topology is transformed into a problem of finding out the optimum distribution of th e strain energy. Once, then, the energy distribution is known, the optimal cross-sectional areas of elements are found out. The above two steps are ex ecuted in turn till the convergence is reached. Next, the stiffness and str ength reliability corresponding to the final topological structure is compu ted with the reasonable result. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights r eserved.