Conceptual design database for genetic algorithms optimization: A study to design a database and investigate the prerequisites for software using genetic algorithms to optimize structural systems based on cost and environmental impact
Publicerad
Författare
Typ
Examensarbete för masterexamen
Master's Thesis
Master's Thesis
Modellbyggare
Tidskriftstitel
ISSN
Volymtitel
Utgivare
Sammanfattning
The construction industry is undergoing a transformative shift toward environmental
sustainability. This shift demands that building projects not only adapt to the traditional
benchmarks of time and cost but also integrate considerations to minimize
CO2 equivalent emissions. In this context, the critical decision of selecting an optimal
structural system during early design phases, such as the concept exploration
phase, becomes essential for reducing the environmental footprint in the industry.
Therefore, this study explores the possibilities of using genetic algorithms (GA), a
kind of multicriteria optimization inspired by the evolution process, to support structural
engineers during early design phases. The genetic algorithm’s prerequisites for
creating different structural systems are analyzed in this project. The solutions for
the systems are evaluated based on material, production, and construction costs and
CO2 equivalent emissions. The necessary prerequisites and software design were investigated
through workshops and questionnaires targeting experienced structural
engineers. Based on the workshop and survey results, a structural design database
was created, including aspects such as functionality and buildability. The database
includes different elements, such as slabs, walls, columns, and beams. Further, information
is implemented in the database, allowing the user to input requirements
concerning the buildability, sound class, and fire class. The results from the workshop
and surveys demonstrated the importance of including the buildability aspect
in the software for the software to be functional. Overall, the software is considered
to have the opportunity to become a useful tool for structural engineers during the
conceptual design phase, with the approach of creating ideas. Instead of selecting
one solution that is considered the most optimal, it would be preferable to present
a range of solutions from which the user can choose the most fitting system for the
specific project. Besides choosing between different materials, optimizing the material
quantity of the total building is crucial to becoming environmentally beneficial.
Beskrivning
Ämne/nyckelord
Conceptual design, genetic algorithms, structural system, optimization, database, buildability, sustainability, environmental impact