Optimizing Structures Subject to Multiple Deflection Constraints and Load Cases Using the Principle of Virtual Work

This paper presents an iterative automated method for optimizing structures with multiple deflection criteria and load cases. The method is based on the principle of virtual work. Discrete sections are selected for structures with fixed geometries. An optimal structure is one which meets all strengt...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inJournal of structural engineering (New York, N.Y.) Vol. 136; no. 11; pp. 1444 - 1452
Main Authors Walls, Richard, Elvin, Alex
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published American Society of Civil Engineers 01.11.2010
Subjects
Automated
Criteria
Deflection
Frames
Optimization
Stepped
Structural engineering
TECHNICAL PAPERS
Warehouses
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Summary:This paper presents an iterative automated method for optimizing structures with multiple deflection criteria and load cases. The method is based on the principle of virtual work. Discrete sections are selected for structures with fixed geometries. An optimal structure is one which meets all strength and deflection criteria using minimal material. Four case studies are considered in this paper. A simple portal frame is presented to show how the method works. A 60-story frame is optimized to demonstrate the effectiveness of the method for large structures. A warehouse designed by professional engineers is presented to show how the method can be used for structures subjected to complex loading conditions and deflection criteria. The automated method’s solution is 4.5% lighter than the engineers’. Finally, a stepped cantilever is optimized and compared to results in literature. Material savings of up to 14.4% are realized.
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ISSN:0733-9445
1943-541X
DOI:10.1061/(ASCE)ST.1943-541X.0000246