Shape optimization of streamlined decks of cable-stayed bridges considering aeroelastic and structural constraints

Abstract Structural optimization techniques have the potential to become a powerful tool in the design of long-span bridges. The search for more efficient and reliable designs involves considering shape variations in the deck cross-section, which is one of the key features of the bridge. This affects the deck aerodynamics and its mechanical properties, and consequently to the aeroelastic response of the bridge. A numerical approach pursuing to optimize a long-span bridge needs to explore changes in the deck shape, including structural and aeroelastic responses as design constraints. Therefore, the flutter response of the bridge must be computed numerically for every candidate proposed by the optimization algorithm. This work presents a novel approach to conduct the optimization of deck shape and cables size of a long-span cable-stayed bridge considering simultaneously aeroelastic and structural constraints. The design variables are the cross-section area and prestressing force of each stay, the deck plates thickness and the width and depth of a streamlined box deck. The aeroelastic constraint is evaluated based on the fully numerical procedure developed in an authors' previous work. A series of parameter variation studies, that are instrumental for the sound interpretation of the optimum designs, are also reported.