Alternative mathematical modelling in the analysis of reinforced concrete structures

The analysis of stresses and strains is usually based on equations of equilibrium, conditions of kinematical compatibility and stress-strain-relations. In the paper an alternative mathematical model is applied which is based on the minimum principle of total potential energy Thus a problem of linear or non-linear optimisation is formulated. This approach has the advantage that the stresses and strains in composite cross-sections and composite structural members, e.g. reinforced concrete elements, can be calculated for various specifications of the stress-strain-relations by the same mathematical model. Standard computational systems for optimisation can be used, e.g. the optimisation tools included in the program system EXCEL. The application of the method is demonstrated by numerical examples.