Optimum design of flexible structures under constraints on strain energy and asymptotic stability Original Research Article

A new concept and optimization method are presented for designing a flexible structure that allows large deformation. Constraint is given for the minimum strain energy that can be stored for specified norm of displacement, as well as asymptotic stability of the undeformed state within the region defined by the specified displacement norm. The optimal solution is obtained by solving a two-level optimization problem. Examples are given for 2-bar and 24-bar trusses. Asymptotic stability of the optimized truss is verified by carrying out dynamic analysis for given random initial velocity that is equivalent to the specified strain energy.