Algorithm of numerical optimization of steel structures on basis of minimum weight criterion

Abstract

The description of the algorithm of steel structures optimal design is described in the article. The calculation model is represented by flat and spatial rod elements. The problem of optimization is resolved with the help of mathematical programming. The material consumption is taken as a criterion of optimality. A wide range of inspections is presented in the form of regulatory requirements for strength, rigidity and local stability. The geometry parameters of the sections are varied, as well as the external geometry of the nodes of the final element model. Both continuous and discrete variations might be possible. The algorithm is implemented in two versions: on the basis of imitating the short-term problem and with the direct reference to the target and restrictive functions at each step of optimization process. The results of the solution of the steel framework optimization problem during on-going and discrete variations of geometric parameters are presented. The solutions obtained are estimated on uniqueness.