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Evaluation of Tree-Like Structures Using Topology Optimization as a Design Method

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Abstract

Topology optimization is a structural optimization method that mainly works on distributing the material within a design domain based on specific design objectives and parameters. Topology optimization results are often comparable to nature-inspired forms. Hence, this research explores tree-like structures, a key category of nature-inspired forms, through the lens of topology optimization. Nine design domains that differ in their number of columns and branching are used to explore these factors’ effect on resulting forms. These nine domains are topology optimized using Grasshopper and its tOpos plugin. Results are then compared based on visual and structural aspects. The study concludes by discussing the potential of using topology optimization as a method for designing tree-like structures and confirming that increasing the number of columns combined with some sort of branching within the structure does improve the final results.

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Gazi University Academic Writing Application and Research Center for proofreading the article.

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  1. Department of Architecture, Gazi University, 06570, Ankara, Turkey

    Mariam Selmi & Zeynep Yeşim İlerisoy

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  1. Mariam Selmi
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  2. Zeynep Yeşim İlerisoy
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Correspondence to Mariam Selmi.

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Selmi, M., İlerisoy, Z.Y. Evaluation of Tree-Like Structures Using Topology Optimization as a Design Method. Nexus Netw J 26, 95–110 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00004-023-00749-6

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