Iterative optimal design method of elastic-plastic truss under multiple constraints and load combinations

Abstract

An actual designed structure must response to external actions under conditions, prescribed in codified serviceability (strength versus collapse, including stability loss case, deformation limitations and other) requirements and aimed to satisfy the introduced optimality criteria. An introduction of elastic-plastic structural behaviour ensures certain savings versus elastic structure, however, it causes certain difficulties when modelling and realizing numerical optimization techniques to solve the direct optimization problem of a structure. The possible dangerous states of external actions in respect of the structural response are prescribed by designed codes in terms of certain combinations of loads. The authors propose iterative optimization method of truss-type structure, created to satisfy all serviceability requirements in respect of all the introduced load combinations.