Fast optimization of outriggers for super-tall buildings using a sensitivity vector algorithm

Abstract

This study proposes a simple engineering method to fast determine the quantity and placement of outriggers for super-tall buildings. At first, a sensitivity vector algorithm (SVA) is proposed by applying the vector dot-product algorithm to optimize outriggers in super-tall buildings towards the constraints of the maximum interstory drift . The proposed SVA is then demonstrated by a super-tall building under the wind load control and verified by the exhaustive search algorithm (ESA). Finally, the SVA is applied to optimize the outriggers for a super-tall building in the high-intensity seismic area . The results show that the optimal outrigger scheme relates to both the quantity and placement, rather than simply proportional to the quantity. Increasing the quantity of outriggers can reduce the interstory drift in the adjacent area of the added outrigger but may increase the interstory drift in other zones. The sensitivity vector algorithm can be used for the optimization of outriggers not only for the single-mode-driven wind load, but also for the multi-mode-driven seismic load, which is very helpful for the preliminary design of super-tall buildings. • Sensitivity vector algorithm is proposed to optimize quantity and placement of outriggers using vector dot-product algorithm. • Optimal outrigger scheme relates to both the quantity and placement, rather than simply proportional to the quantity. • Sensitivity vector algorithm can be used for both the single-mode-driven wind load and the multi-mode-driven seismic load.