Structural design optimization of steel beamsand frames with web-tapered members usingthe PSO-FEM algorithm

This paper presents an algorithm for structural design optimization of steel beams andframes with web-tapered members using the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithmand the finite element method (FEM). The design optimization is done in accordancewith Eurocode 3 (EC 3) for the minimum mass. The proposed algorithm is more flexibleand efficient than traditional design methods based on a trial and error approach. Theeffectiveness of the presented PSO-FEM algorithm is evaluated on examples of the sizeoptimization of web-tapered members cross-section. The results show that the PSO-FEM algorithm is feasible and effective for finding useful designs.