Structural Design of Energy Efficient Buildings Using Multi-Objective BB-BC Algorithm

Abstract

Optimal design of an energy efficient building has to meet two confronted demands: to minimize total cost of construction, and to minimize environmental impact and energy consumption, which is usually obtained by the implementation of expensive insulation materials and equipment. Therefore, optimization task cannot be formulated by a single objective function, but requires at least two functions. Consequently, there is no unique, i.e. the best solution, but a number of more or less acceptable ones among which designer chooses a satisfying one considering given demands and limitations. This paper presents methodology for using the Big Bang – Big Crunch algorithm for optimum design of an energy efficient building that would meet two confronted demands – the lowest price and the lowest environmental impact during the 25 years period. Presented study showed that this approach provides several acceptable solutions among which the decision maker can make a choice in accordance with his/her needs and wishes.