Structural optimization and form finding of light weight structures

There exist three different lines of computational form finding methods: (i ) simulation of hanging models, (ii) numerical simulation of soap films, an d (iii) structural shape optimization. The aim of the present paper is to s how their differences and common aspects when applied to the special task o f maximizing stiffness. The inverse problem of simulation of soap films is formulated in more detail on the basis of differential geometry. The effect of internal pressure is discussed. Several illustrative examples are given . (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.