Optimal design of pad footing based on MINLP optimization

Abstract

The paper presents an optimal design of pad footing, based on multi-parametric mixed-integer non-linear programming (MINLP) optimization. For this purpose, the MINLP optimization model PADFOOT was developed. The model comprises an accurate objective function of the structure production costs, subjected to design, resistance, rotation and settlement constraints in order to satisfy the requirements of the ultimate and serviceability limit states according to Eurocode specifications. In order to interpret the applicability of the optimization model, the paper presents an example of determining the cheapest possible pad footing and the optimal design for the given design parameters. As the model was developed in a general form, the optimization of the pad footing can be performed for different economic conditions and different design parameters. The optimal design of pad footing was investigated for a typical industrial concrete building.