Discussion of the Construction Design Methodology Considering both Evolutionary Structural Optimization and 3D Printing Technology

Construction design, one of the oldest specialties in civil engineering, is a combination work of architectural design and structural analysis. By the development of computer technology, the idea of construction design has been revolutionary changed. This paper introduces a new construction design methodology considering both evolutionary structural optimization and 3D model printing technology. Instead of manual drawing and planning, computer-aided design (CAD) is the used to assist in the creation, modification, or analysis of an architectural design. Computer-aided design involves more than just drawing. In structural engineering area, by using the finite element analysis software (ABAQUS), evolutionary structural optimization (ESO) method can improve the design in defining shape, choosing material and calculating the tolerance of a construction. Finally, the computer designed digital model is made into a three dimensional solid object from the 3D model printer. The solid model can give a visualized view of the whole construction.