Design optimization of 3D reinforced concrete structures

This paper presents a computer-based method for the optimal design of three-dimensional reinforced concrete (RC) skeletal structures having members subjected to biaxial moments, biaxial shears and axial loads. The width, depth and area of longitudinal reinforcement of member sections are taken as the design variables. The optimality criteria (OC) method is applied to minimize the cost of the concrete, steel and formwork for the structure. The primary focus of the paper concerns fundamental issues related to the formulation of design performance constraints on combined axial load, biaxial moments and biaxial shears. An example problem is solved with and without account for biaxial shear constraints to illustrate their influence on the design.