Fully Constrained Design: a Scalable Method for Discrete Member Sizing Optimization of Steel Frame Structures
MDAO: Multi-Disciplinary Analysis and Optimization
Abstract
Fully Constrained Design (FCD) is a new method for discrete sizing optimization of steel
frames. Based on the optimality criteria approach, FCD features a distinct approach to
constraint handling and the generation of new designs that makes the method scalable to
large problems and applicable when the problem objective and/or constraint functions are
discontinuous. FCD is tested on several truss structures and compares favorably to
optimality criteria and heuristic methods in terms of solution quality and computational
efficiency, respectively. A successful industry application of the method is presented to
demonstrate the scalability of the method and its suitability for industry application.