An effective method for discrete structural optimization
Deals with an approximate, but very simple, method of finding the minimum of structural weight under static loads. The design consists of assigning an appropriate rolled profile, from a given catalogue, to each structural member. The design is then formulated as a discrete structural optimization problem. The structure may be subjected to an arbitrary number of constraints imposed on stresses and structural material from members with the least stress. Presented examples are showing that the Problems with k(o) catalogue elements, and j(o) structural members, including k(o) to the power j(o) combinations, can be solved with k(o)j(o) analyses only. The knowledge needed to solve the Problem is limited to structural analysis.
structural optimization weight structural analysis stress analysis