  Structural optimization (topology, shapes, sizing) is an important tool for
facilitating the emergence of new concepts in structural design. Normally,
topology optimization is carried out at the early stage of design and then
shape and sizing design are performed sequentially. Unlike traditional topology
optimization method, explicit methodologies have attracted a great deal of
attention because of the advantages of shortcuting the costly CAD/CAE processes
while dealing with low order number of design variables compared to implicit
method (such as SIMP). This paper aims at presenting an adaptation of a
flow-inspired approach so-called Moving Node Approach (MNA) in topology
optimization. In this approach, the discretization is decoupled from the
material distribution and the final objective is to recognize the best beam
assembly while minimizing compliance. The paradigm has here changed and new
design variables are used such as nodes location, elements length/orientation
and size providing a lower number of design variables than pixels-based. The
methodology is validated using 2 classical testcases in the field of Topology
Optimization: the Cantilever beam and the L-Shape problem.
