Optimal design of regular frames considering column removal

Resumo

Designing a frame to withstand the loss of columns has a great impact over the construction costs, and
it may not be viable since not all buildings are likely to be subjected to extraordinary events that might remove
these supporting elements. In view of that, this paper employs a formulation for the optimal design of framed
structures in the design of a continuous beam. This formulation allows independent column loss probability, and
combines the intact structural condition with all the column loss conditions in one objective function. It is shown
a threshold column loss probability for with the optimal design becomes indifferent to the objective consideration
of column loss. Such threshold varies for different structures, column loss scenarios, and the cost multipliers
employed. It is also found that designing by a discretionary column removal is only beneficial if the column loss
probability is higher than this threshold.