Form-finding with Restraint Topology Optimization of a Curved Shell-Supported Footbridge under Vertical and Horizontal Loads

The research focused on the design of a curved shell-supported footbridge using a form-finding algorithm and genetic optimization. The bridge was shaped through a parametric design code, which also allows optimization based on finite element structural analysis. The constrained optimization involved a mono-objective approach aided by penalty functions to control the maximum tension utilization of the concrete material. The objective was to find the optimal bridge shape in terms of minimizing displacement under vertical and horizontal loads, with both the topological optimization of the positions of the bridge supports and the optimization of the control points of the Bezier curve describing the form of the curved deck as key parameters. The results provide insights into effective techniques for optimizing the design of curved shell-supported footbridges subjected to earthquake loads.