Structural Evolution: a Genetic Algorithm Method to Generate Structurally Optimal Delaunay Triangulated Space Frames for Dynamic Loads

Abstract

This paper presents an evolutionary algorithm that draws its power from the literal interpretation of the natural systemis reproductive process at a microscopic scale with the scope of generating optimal Delaunay triangulated space frames for dynamic loads. The algorithm repositions a firm number of nodes within a space envelope, by establishing Delaunay tetrahedra and, consequently, creating adaptable optimised space frame topologies. The arbitrarily generated tetrahedralised structure is compared against a canonical designed one and the results of this comparison indicate that the method proposed has advantageous properties and is capable of generating an optimum structure that exceeds statically the performance of an engineered tetrahedralised space frame