DESIGN OPTIMIZATION OF A CIVIL STRUCTURE USING NUMERICAL SIMULATIONS

Abstract

This optimization study aims to determine the effect of each input parameter on the output parameters, how the input parameters can interact with each other and also it is emphasized the determination of the values for the input parameters that optimize the responses. In this study, the objective is to obtain an optimal configuration for a resistance structure specific to a telecommunications tower. For this purpose, a variable geometric model using design parameters is created, based on which a 3D finite element model (FEM) is obtained, which is used in the optimization study. The FE model is updated automatically for each version of geometric model and is made using beam and shell elements. Design of Experiments (DOE) methodology allows for using a mathematical model that predicts how input parameters interact to create output responses in an optimization process. Parameters’ correlation and monitoring allow for identifying important parameters and the correlation matrix and sensitivity graphs also help understanding the parametric relationships. Variation limits for design parameters are defined and these parameters can have integer or fractional values.