Abstract：Based on the brief introduction to the mathematical description and numerical algorithms of continuum structural topology optimization, a node model in spatial structure is built and topology optimization design under single and multiple load cases is carried out by using the optimization software OptiStruct. The influences of the checkerboard control and the penalty factor of SIMP density interpolation, as well as the manufacturing constraints including the symmetry constraint and the member size constraints on the optimization results are discussed in detail. After several trials and adjustments, an optimized node with reasonable load-bearing behavior, concise appearance and design aesthetics is obtained. The optimized node is then printed with the polylactic acid (PLA) material by the fused deposition modeling (FDM) technology. The feasibility of prototyping and manufacturing of optimized nodes with additive manufacturing (3D printing) technology is further discussed. At present, a realizable approach is to combine the additive manufacturing with the traditional manufacturing techniques to produce moulds of complex cast-steel nodes with 3D printing or to print wax models followed by dewaxing casting.
