Individual Work

Multi-Objective Structural Optimization Under Differentiated Load Scenarios:
Detailed scenarios in loading conditions introduced in early design phases can shift the results of structural optimization. Simplified load frameworks in design problems may introduce bias in the form-finding process and lead to discrepancies between optimized results and actual constructions. To understand the hidden layers caused by the loading conditions we established a testbed of multi-level pitched-roof timber trusses and explored the design space with four load condition scenarios. A two-stage optimization process was adopted: an initial global search using Octopus, followed by local convergence using DSE, across three objectives. The optimization results differed markedly from those loading scenarios, location, and direction of the applied loading directly influenced the extent of these differences. Interestingly, the optimization results correspond to vernacular structural forms adapted to the local environment. This study concludes that adjusting load definitions according to site and design-space factors is crucial for avoiding bias in the optimization process and for generating structurally meaningful, contextually adaptive results.