Mathematical Programming in Structural Design

Abstract

A technique is presented for convenient implementation of mathematical programming in structural design developing what is termed a “generalized formulation.” It is shown that once a generalized formulation has been created for a particular structure, it can be used to design many similar structures without having to reformulate the problem. A simple plate girder example is used to introduce the concept of generalized formulations using the computer program IGGP, a program based on the Generalized Geometric Programming method. A generalized formulation is then developed for the design of a simply‐supported composite highyway bridge with steel stringers and concrete slab. An example solution is also presented.