Optimal Design of Double-Layer Domes Considering Different Mechanical Systems via ECBO

Abstract

In this paper, a finite element model based on geometrical nonlinear analysis of large-scale double-layer domes and suspen-domes with pinned and rigid connections is presented. An optimal geometry and sizing design are performed using the enhanced colliding bodies optimization (ECBO) method. The length of the strut, the cable initial strain, the cross-sectional areas of the cables and steel elements, and height of domes are considered as design variables and the volume of each dome is taken as the objective function. A simple approach is defined to determine the configurations of the dome structures. This approach includes calculating the joint coordinates and formation of steel elements and cables. Numerical results show the robustness of ECBO algorithm. The efficiency of Lamella suspen-dome with pin-joint and rigid-joint connections is then explored and compared with double-layer Lamella dome to investigate the performance of these systems under dead and snow loading condition. Optimization process is performed via ECBO algorithm to demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of the ECBO in finding optimal designs for different systems of domes.