The Optimization of Free-Form Space Structures Based on Soap Film Property

Abstract:

Combining geometrical characteristics analysis and mechanical properties optimization, this paper presents an optimization approach for free-form space structures based on natural soap film property. The quasi-uniform B-spline surface is applied to express the initial surface, and the prediction technology of tangent vectors is adopted to satisfy the specific geometric configuration requirements. To establish the rational objective surface, the initial surface is treated as soap film and optimized by Young–Laplace equation and dynamic relaxation method. Numerical experimental results demonstrate that the proposed optimization approach is convenient and feasible, and it is effective for shortening the design period of free-form space structures.

• Periodical: Advanced Materials Research (Volume 186)
• Pages: 180-184
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMR.186.180
• Online since: January 2011
• Authors: Na Li, Jin Yu Lu
• Keywords: Dynamic Relaxation Method, Freeform Surfaces, Soap Film, Space Structures

References

[1] M. Majowiecki, in: New Olympics New Shell and Spatial Structures, China, 16-19th October (2006).

[2] K. -U. Bletzinger, R. Wüchner, F. Daoud and N. Camprubí: Comput. Methods Appl. Mech. Engrg. Vol. 194 (2005), p.3438.

[3] J. Ji and J.J. Man: Computer and Modernization. Vol. 4 (2007), p.4. (in Chinese).

[4] J.J. Man and G.Z. Wang: J. Computer-Aided Design & Computer Graphics. Vol. 17 (2005), p.431. (in Chinese).

[5] R.M.O. Pauletti and P.M. Pimenta: Comput. Methods Appl. Mech. Engrg. Vol. 197 (2008), p.4419.

[6] M.R. Barnes: Int. J. Space Structures. Vol. 14 (1999), p.89.

[7] M.R. Barnes: Comput. Struct. Vol. 30 (1988), p.685.

[8] J.S. Brew and W.J. Lewis: Int. J. Numer. Meth. Engng. Vol. 56 (2003), p.651.

[9] J.S. Brew and W.J. Lewis: Int. J. Numer. Meth. Engng. Vol. 72 (2007), p.1.

[10] D. Marsh: Applied Geometry for Computer Graphics and CAD (Springer-Verlag, 2005).

[11] Information on http: /en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Soap_film.

[12] N. Li, J.Y. Lu and Luo Y Z: J. Computer-Aided Design & Computer Graphics. Vol. 22 (2010), p.1075. (in Chinese).