Title:
Strut-and-Tie Models Using Multi-Material and Multi- Volume Topology Optimization: Load Path Approach
Author(s):
Tuo Zhao, Ammar A. Alshannaq, David W. Scott, and Glaucio H. Paulino
Publication:
Structural Journal
Volume:
120
Issue:
6
Appears on pages(s):
7-22
Keywords:
load path; Michell number; multi-material topology optimization; reinforced concrete (RC) deep beam; strut and tie
DOI:
10.14359/51739089
Date:
11/1/2023
Abstract:
The development of strut-and-tie models (STMs) for the design
of reinforced concrete (RC) deep beams considering a general
multi-material and multi-volume topology optimization framework
is presented. The general framework provides flexibility to control
the location/inclination/length scale of the ties according to practical
design requirements. Optimality conditions are applied to
evaluate the performance of the optimized STM layouts. Specifically,
the Michell number Z (or load path) is used as a simple and
effective criterion to quantify the STMs. The experimental results
confirm that the layout with the lowest load path Z achieves the
highest ultimate load. Moreover, significantly reduced cracking
is observed in the optimized layouts compared to the traditional
layout. This observation implies that the optimized layouts may
require less crack-control reinforcement, which would lower the
total volume of steel required for the deep beams.