Abstract:
This study focuses on preliminary/conceptual design phase, being the most crucial stage to dictate cost of RCC structures. The main objective of the study is to develop a MATLAB model suggesting the most cost-effective topology (layout) of the structure, as per client’s requirement and/or architectural constraints. Moreover, a program aimed at individual elements optimization is also developed which varies width, depth, reinforcement, etc. to minimize cost. Both programs would ultimately be integrated to produce overall optimized design. Ant colony algorithm is used for topology optimization while derivative-based optimization functions, are employed to optimize structural elements. The design thus produced, will comply with ACI-318-14 design specifications and user-defined limits. The resulting model would be interactive in nature and would contribute to minimize difference in architect’s and structural engineer’s viewpoints. Certain limitations regarding regularity, type and functionality are imposed to restrict scope and complexity of the study.
