Topology design of optimizing material arrangements of beam-to-column connection frames with maximal stiffness

This study presents conceptually effective layouts of materials, i.e. steel or fiber, optimally positioned into building frames. The design information of the material layout may be helpful in dealing with large-scale safety design issues in civil or architectural engineering fields, against natural phenomena, such as winds and earthquakes. The material topology optimization method evaluates an optimal layout reinforcing or arranging material of a specified volume in a given design space that maximizes stiffness for a given set of loads and boundary conditions. Generating the optimal distribution of material is similar to the so-called strut-and-tie method using truss members of straight lines, and it leads to the stiffest structures. Numerical applications verify that the present material topology optimization method is an applicable concept design tool to create effective layout designs of material in given structural frames in civil and building industries.