Modeling to Generate Alternatives in Discrete Structural Optimization

by John W. Baugh, Jr., (A.M.ASCE), North Carolina State Univ, Raleigh, United States,
E. Downey Brill, Jr., (M.ASCE), North Carolina State Univ, Raleigh, United States,
Shannon C. Caldwell, (S.M.ASCE), North Carolina State Univ, Raleigh, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Computing in Civil Engineering

Abstract:

Structural design, like other complex decision problems, involves many trade-offs among competing criteria. While mathematical programming models are increasingly realistic, there are often relevant issues that cannot be easily captured, if at all, in a formal system. We describe an approach to modeling that recognizes these limitations and allows a designer to explore unmodeled issues in a joint human-computer cognitive system. A prototype based on this approach is presented for topological truss optimization.

Subject Headings: Optimization models | Mathematical models | Computer models | Structural design | Computer programming | Trusses | Mathematics

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