Determination of strut-and-tie models for structural concrete under dynamic loads

Abstract

This proposed study aims to develop reliable and efficient numerical optimization methods for generating optimal strut-and-tie models (STMs) in structural concrete members under dynamic loads. The numerical models are developed based on the bidirectional evolutionary structural optimization (BESO) method for the stiffness maximization problems. In this method, a controlling index based on the minimum weight and maximum stiffness is defined as the optimization criterion function and the element virtual strain energy is taken as the element removal and addition criterion. By the dynamical analysis, optimal strut-and-tie models are established based on the BESO method. Several examples are presented to show the efficiency of the proposed approach in finding optimal STMs under dynamic loads. It is shown that optimal STMs and reinforcement layouts under dynamic loads generally differ from those obtained under static loads. The developed numerical models based on dynamic responses can be used by practicing design engineers for the analysis and design of STMs in concrete structures.