David Schmölz

David Schmölz is a Researcher at the Chair of Structural Analysis, Technical University of Munich (TUM), where he has served as a Research Associate since 2020. His academic work bridges computational mechanics and structural engineering with practical applications in civil infrastructure and advanced manufacturing.

Education:

• Research Associate, Chair of Structural Analysis, TUM (2020–present)
• M.Sc. in Civil Engineering, TUM (2017–2020)
• Semester Abroad, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm (2016)
• B.Sc. in Civil Engineering, TUM (2013–2017)
• Abitur, Rudolf-Diesel-Gymnasium, Augsburg (2012)

Schmölz specializes in node-based structural optimization using the Vertex Morphing method, with emphasis on thin-walled structures, bead pattern generation, and additive manufacturing applications. His research integrates wind engineering principles for membrane structures and addresses challenges in hydroforming constraints and discretization-independent parameterization. Key contributions include sensitivity filtering techniques and shape optimization frameworks for lightweight design in civil engineering contexts.

His publication record (2021–2025) reveals a cohesive research trajectory focused on advancing node-based optimization methodologies. Dominant themes include engineering-constrained parameterization, bead feature generation for thin-walled systems, and hybrid approaches combining Vertex Morphing with rigid body mechanics. Recent work demonstrates increasing sophistication in handling manufacturing constraints for additive construction and hydroforming processes, while maintaining computational efficiency through discretization-independent formulations.

David Schmölz has supervised four Master's theses at TUM covering truss optimization, infinite load-point scenarios, and extruded form optimization using Vertex Morphing. His research is funded through major third-party projects including CoDA, Mistralwind, WINSENT, FlexWing, and the Digital Building Kit, which target computational design advancements and wind engineering applications in civil infrastructure.

As a core member of Prof. Roland Wüchner's Chair of Structural Analysis, Schmölz collaborates with a 15+ researcher team including Ann-Kathrin Goldbach and Suneth Warnakulasuriya. The group leverages advanced computational tools such as Carat++, Kratos Multiphysics, and Kiwi!3d for structural simulation, with ongoing development of the Vertex Morphing framework for industrial applications in offshore engineering and wind-excited structures.