A Comparative analysis of structural optimization of spatial steel frames considering different bracing systems

Resumo

In tall steel buildings, aspects related to natural frequencies of vibration, global stability, and horizontal
displacements due to wind pressure become more relevant when compared to sizing strength constraints. In this
sense, the bracing systems may be crucial to improve the dynamic behavior increasing the structure stiffness. This
paper shows a comparative analysis between four bracing systems used in six-story spatial steel frames subjected to
weight minimization. This study shows which bracing system is most suitable for the final design of the structure.
The constraints imposed in the structural optimization problem are the first natural vibration frequency, the critical
load factor concerning to global stability, and horizontal displacements. The search algorithm is the Differential
Evolution (DE) coupled with an Adaptive Penalty Method (APM) to handle the constraints.