Synergetic concrete shape and cable layout optimization of pre-stressed concrete beams

The present study proposes a new technique intended towards the synergetic optimization of concrete shape and cable layout of pre-stressed concrete (PSC) beams. An in-house software labelled "Simultaneous Shape and Cable Optimization" (SSCO) based on the currently proposed technique is developed. The pre-stressing cable is modelled as a curvilinear three-noded bar element tracing a B-spline profile, while the concrete is modelled as a discretized continuum using nine-noded Lagrangian elements. The concrete is modified from its initial shape incorporating the notion of design elements into a fuzzy governed integrated zero-order technique, while the cable is modified employing a coherent algorithm designed towards the modification of ordinates of the control points. The entire modification process is iterative in nature and is directed towards the removal of tensile stress, attaining an overall optimized concrete shape and cable layout. Re-meshing and mesh refinement are done using the indigenously developed Auto Mesh Creator and Refiner (AMCR). Frictional loss encountered during post-tensioning of cables and its effects are also contemplated distinguishably in the present study. Using SSCO, few PSC beams are efficiently optimized for certain applied constraints. The optimized PSC beam acquired is easy to fabricate and can be used by industries.