Title:
Topology-Optimization-Based Additive Construction
Author(s):
Jenna Migliorino
Publication:
Web Session
Volume:
ws_S25_JennaMigliorino.pdf
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
3/30/2025
Abstract:
For decades, concrete structures have been constructed using cementitious materials through conventional methods using formworks (either cast-in-place or precast). Concrete with a sufficient slump is needed to fill up the formwork. This approach results in significant material wastage and increases the carbon footprint of structures. Additive construction offers unique opportunities to build form-free structural elements with complex geometry which enable topology and structural optimization. Topology optimization is a method of optimizing geometries using algorithmic models to optimize material layout within a user-defined space for a given set of loads, conditions, and constraints. Topology optimization maximizes the performance and efficiency of the design by removing redundant material from areas that do not need to carry significant loads to reduce the amount of material being used or solve design challenges like reducing resonance or thermal stress. One of the factors to consider between the marriage of additive construction and topology optimization is the placement of reinforcement. Therefore, this presentation focusses on compression only structures, which have no need for reinforcement. Furthermore, this presentation discusses (1) topology optimization with regards to concrete, (2) numerical simulations for topology optimized structures with different loading conditions, (3) the overall printing process, as well as the CAD designs from each numerical simulation, (3) computational analysis of the final designs, and (4) any quality issues of the print conducted by Lidar scanning. The methodology provides evidence that integrating topology optimization with additive construction creates more opportunities for freedom of design manufacturing.