Topology Optimisation in Structural Steel Design for Additive Manufacturing

Abstract

Topology Optimisation is a broad concept deemed to encapsulate different processes for computationally determining structural materials optimal layouts. Among such techniques, Discrete Optimisation has a consistent record in Civil and Structural Engineering. In contrast, the Optimisation of Continua recently emerged as a critical asset for fostering the employment of Additive Manufacturing, as one can observe in several other industrial fields. With the purpose of filling the need for a systematic review both on the Topology Optimisation recent applications in structural steel design and on its emerging advances that can be brought from other industrial fields, this article critically analyses scientific publications from the year 2015 to 2020. Over six hundred documents, including Research, Review and Conference articles, added to Research Projects and Patents, attained from different sources were found significant after eligibility verifications and therefore, herein depicted. The discussion focused on Topology Optimisation recent approaches, methods, and fields of application and deepened the analysis of structural steel design and design for Additive Manufacturing. Significant findings can be found in summarising the state-of-the-art in profuse tables, identifying the recent developments and research trends, as well as discussing the path for disseminating Topology Optimisation in steel construction.

Design for Additive Manufacturing: Methods and Tools

“…The approach integrates restrictive DfAM constraints such as overhang angle and length to create support free designs and reduce post-processing costs. Finally, in their review of TO in the design of steel structures and components for AM, Ribeiro et al [17] examined the methods, applications and research trends of TO in civil and structural engineering over the past five years.…”

Seismic Design of Bolted Connections in Steel Structures—A Critical Assessment of Practice and Research

“…The literature research was conducted between February and March 2021, following the methodology thoroughly explained in [5]. Its steps include Identification, Screening, Sorting, Eligibility assessment, Information extraction, Qualitative synthesis, and Discussion stages, in a sequence illustrated in Figure 5.…”

“…Further information on screening criteria can be found in [5]. A choice has been made to consider all peer-reviewed items with value for the studied topic, including journal research articles, conference proceedings, review articles and peer-reviewed book chapters.…”

“…However, even if using EN10025, EN10210, and EN10219 standards for material properties, similar A net /A ratios would apply, as exemplified in Table 4 for EN10025-2 steels. Another interesting issue lies in the failure modes hierarchy prescribed in EN1998-1's clause 6.5.5 (5). By specifying that bolts' shear resistance should exceed at least 20% of the plate bearing resistance, a significant constraint is imposed to the design since EN1998-1's clause 6.5.5 (3) also requires non-dissipative connection resistance should exceed the resistance of the connecting element by no less than 37.5%.…”

Design for Additive Manufacturing: Methods and Tools

“…approach integrates restrictive DfAM constraints such as overhang angle and length to create support free designs and reduce post-processing costs. Finally, in their review of TO in the design of steel structures and components for AM, Ribeiro et al [17] examined the methods, applications and research trends of TO in civil and structural engineering over the past five years.…”