Cost Optimization of Buildings

The methodology consists of the decomposition of the overall building design problem into a series of problems, one for each building subsystem, e.g., foundation, structure, roofing. The solution of these problems is sequenced in a manner which accounts for the physical interaction between each subsystem. Their solution is coordinated by way of a master optimization problem, the function of which is to determine values for the variables which describe how the various subsystems are interfaced. Box's Complex Method is used to solve the master problem. An objective function which accounts for material, labor and equipment inputs is used. Labor and equipment inputs as a function of building configuration are assessed by considering the elemental operations required for the fabrication or construction of each subsystem. Results are presented for a light industrial structure having plan dimensions of 100 ft by 520 ft. They demonstrate the importance of considering both weight and nonweight related costs.