An effective method for discrete structural optimization

Deals with an approximate, but very simple, method of finding the minimum o f structural weight under static loads. The design consists of assigning an appropriate rolled profile, from a given catalogue, to each structural mem ber. The design is then formulated as a discrete structural optimization pr oblem. The structure may be subjected to an arbitrary number of constraints imposed on stresses and structural material from members with the least st ress. Presented examples are showing that the Problems with k(o) catalogue elements, and j(o) structural members, including k(o) to the power j(o) com binations, can be solved with k(o)j(o) analyses only. The knowledge needed to solve the Problem is limited to structural analysis.