STRUCTURAL TOPOLOGY OPTIMIZATION AS A TEACHING TOOL IN THE ARCHITECTURE

Resumo

The student of architecture with the basic knowledge of the disciplines of structural engineering can easily understand structural processes more technologically developed. The use of optimization starts from the understanding of how the structure behaves statically and aims to generate physical models that address structural criteria, such as supports and loads, and functional criteria, such as the type of material used, openings and solid areas. By knowing the variables required for optimization, the geometric shape of the structural element tends to change to an organic architecture configuration. Even with optimization processes presenting a lot of mathematical complexity, this paper approaches the essential stages for teaching the structural topological optimization in undergraduate architecture. Also, through examples, propose practical and simplified models that can be easily implemented in the classroom and in the professional life of the architect, conferring excellent results in terms of functionality and structurally efficient. To achieve these results, three software were used in free and educational versions, such as ForcePad, Topostruct and MIDAS NFX. The studies were applied in the structural design of a vertical building, a footbridge, a hammerhead bridge pier and a cantilevered building.