Reduced record method for efficient time history dynamic analysis and optimal design

Time history dynamic structural analysis is a time consuming procedure when used for large-scale structures or iterative analysis in structural optimization. This article proposes a new methodology for approximate prediction of extremum point of the response history via wavelets. The method changes original record into a reduced record, decreasing the computational time of the analysis. This reduced record can be utilized in iterative structural dynamic analysis of optimization and hence significantly reduces the overall computational effort. Design examples are included to demonstrate the capability and efficiency of the Reduced Record Method (RRM) when utilized in optimal design of frame structures using meta-heuristic algorithms.