Structural Optimization: Case‐Based Approach

Abstract

A new approach to structural parametric optimization is proposed. A two‐stage case‐based optimization process, including learning and production stages, is presented. A brief description of a case‐base reasoning system and its mathematical foundations are also provided. This system was used in four experiments in the area of design and optimization of steel frames under wind, live, and dead loading. Each experiment was a five‐stage learning process. At each stage, a case‐based reasoning system was used in a number of tests to make predictions regarding the optimal cross sections of individual members and the total weight of a rigid steel frame, based on a number of examples of optimal designs. The results of these predictions were compared with known optimal designs. The experiments were performed to determine the feasibility of the proposed optimization and to identify the relationship between the accuracy of case‐based predictions and the number of training examples. The experiments confirmed the expected feasibility of the proposed optimization. Initial conclusions and suggestions for further research are included.