A Cost Optimization Model For Seismic Design Of Structures PDF Download

The goal of any structural design process is to produce a safe design that meets all the design codes requirements, while trying to minimize the cost of the design. Until recently, this process was based on the judgment of the designer. Optimization in structural design is a recent concept that has been introduced and used in the last couple of decades to find the optimum designs based on mathematical algorithms and techniques that is more accurate compared to human judgment. The research related to structural optimization is still scattered and limited, with no effective application in real life design process. This study introduces an optimization model to minimize the cost of reinforced concrete (RC) highrise structures, that include flat slab system. The model is based on neural networks optimization technique, structural analysis principles, code provisions for designing of RC elements, and seismic design requirements. The model automates the design of the structural elements (slabs, beams, columns, and shear walls), which will reduce the time previously consumed to accomplish this process, while minimizing the cost. The model is applied to a real-life structure, where it is first used to design and optimize two flat slabs in the structure, which was previously designed traditionally. Then it is applied to the design of the whole structure, considering seismic load. The model resulted in savings of 6.7-9% for the slab optimization compared to the original design, and 8.5% for the highrise structure optimization, compared to the original design. For highrise structures, these savings mean hundreds of thousands of dollars. This is the start of a new structural design software era, where the whole structural design is performed using an inclusive software that guarantees minimum time and cost for a structurally sound design.