What is it about?

This paper explores the constructability-based multi-objective optimization paradigm, specifically at the element level for rectangular concrete columns reinforced asymmetrically with rebar.

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Why is it important?

Most of the state-of-art research for concrete columns and buildings consider only symmetrical arrangements of rebar, literally fearing asymmetrical configurations, despite of the potential savings of material usage that could be generated. The issue is that many concerns arise when considering these designs: (1) for structural engineers (safety), (2) for builders and contractors (larger time execution for construction - money) and (3) for researchers (computational time demand and complexity for design).

Perspectives

I wanted to make a strong statement here, (first) with a thorough literature review to prove that asymmetrical configurations of reinforcement can ensure acceptable structural efficiency and ductility levels, even under seismic loads. (Second), by proving that with constructability metrics, specifically focused on rebar, quite practical designs can be generated, and still obtaining, at the same time, huge amounts of material savings, in comparison to symmetrical designs. The latter, through multi-objective optimization methods. And (third), that such optimum designs could be generated in seconds, with Machine Learning and Deep Learning models as enhancement for meta-heuristic optimization methods (surrogate multi-objective optimization), with quite acceptable convergence.

PhD student - Researcher Luis Fernando Verduzco Martinez
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Read the Original

This page is a summary of: Constructability-based multi-objective optimization with machine learning-enhanced meta-heuristics for reinforcing bar design in rectangular concrete columns, Structural and Multidisciplinary Optimization, February 2025, Springer Science + Business Media,
DOI: 10.1007/s00158-024-03914-8.
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