Author(s)

R.R. Reddy, A. Gupta & R.R Singh

Abstract

Knowledge based and heuristic approach to the cost optimum design of concrete structures R.R. Reddy", A. Gupta\ R.R Singh^ Department of Civil Engineering, Osmania University, Hyderabad-500007, India ^Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi-110016, India ABSTRACT An expert system has been developed for optimum design of reinforced concrete members, called EXFORM. Optimization at the conceptual design phase has so far been based on informal methods i.e the knowledge of the designer gained through past experience. In this paper a formal method has been proposed for cost optimization of reinforced concrete structures. An appropriate cost function has been derived to estimate optimum percentage of steel. EXFORM makes use of this cost function along with heuristic knowledge of the designer. INTRODUCTION The design process of any structure involves (i) conceptual design and (ii) design realization. Conceptual design is largely done

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