Optimum design of frame structures using two-point response approximation

The main aim in the present work is to reduce the number of structural analyses in the process of optimization. To achieve this, all the structural responses such as forces and displacements are approximated in terms of some intermediate variables. These variables for frame structures are chosen as values of cross-sectional areas and moments of inertia. The approximate stresses and constraints are then recovered from the approximate responses. To approximate the responses, a two point approximation is used. It is shown that this method of approximation is more efficient than die single point approximation A number of examples are solved by this method and the results are compared with other methods.