Structural optimization in practice: Potential applications of genetic algorithms

With increasing competition, the engineering industry is in need of optimization of designsthat would lead to minimum cost or weight. Recent developments in Genetic Algorithms (GAs) makes itpossible to model and obtain optimal solutions in structural design that can be put to use in industry. Themain objective of this paper is to illustrate typical applications of GAs to practical design of structuralsystems such as steel trusses, towers, bridges, reinforced concrete frames, bridge decks, shells and layoutplanning of buildings. Hence, instead of details of GA process, which can be found in the reportedliterature, attention is focussed on the description of the various applications and the practical aspects thatare considered in Genetic Modeling. The paper highlights scope and future directions for wider applicationsof GA based methodologies for optimal design in practice.