Preliminary design of long-span king-post truss systems with a genetic algorithm

This article presents an efficient design approach for the preliminary design of long-span king-post steel truss systems, First of all, the key parameters that govern effectiveness of the design of a truss system that has its own unique geometric configuration are identified. An optimization model based on the identified key design parameters and the proposed simplified analysis model is established next. A genetic algorithm is then applied to search for the optimal key design parameters. Finally, design examples based on the study of two arena projects in North America are presented. The results of the study suggest that the proposed design method provides an efficient and practical solution for the design of long-span king-post truss systems.