Two-dimensional discrete topology optimization and comparison of mathematical problem formulations

STO is a mathematical form finding problem formulation, that the last years matured, from an academic subject to an applied sciences’ practical design tool. So far, STO is implemented in real-world applications of the automotive, aerospace and other fields of the mechanical engineering industry. Its contribution to the AEC industry is limited to applications that rely only on the conceptual design process. The main scope of this research is to establish some mathematical STO formulations for supporting the design phases of large-scale civil engineering structural systems from the conceptual design phase to the final one. The interpretation and constructability of the final layout of the STO procedure, is a specific issue that is considered throughout this research. The generation of structural systems composed of discrete members is also an aim of the presented study.