A move coordination method for alternative loads in structural optimization

A decomposition technique for alternative loading conditions in the integrated optimal structural design is developed. The method, called the move coordination, consists of partitioning the large structural optimization problem into a set of smaller coupled subproblems. In each subproblem only one loading condition is considered and the subproblems are solved in a parallel cyclic way. The coupling among the subproblems is accomplished through the introduction of coordinating constraints between each subproblem. These constraints ensure that the final design is the same and feasible for all subproblems. The method developed is illustrated by two examples of member sizing of truss structures using the integrated optimal design formulation and geometric programming. The method presents the advantage of reducing the size of the optimization problem as well as the computer processing time. The method is also suitable for implementation on computers using parallel processing.