Desirability-Based Design of Space Structures Using Genetic Algorithm and Fuzzy Logic

Engineering design usually considers multiple variances in a design and integrates them appropriately to achieve the most desirable alternatives. This concern is of particular importance in civil engineering construction projects. Frequently, the considerations of the structural design by civil engineering team contrasts with the style and creative novelties of the architects. This requires new methodologies to yield appropriate alternatives, which meet the artistic aspects of design and satisfy the demands of the structural designer. Consequently, the process of design should incorporate multiple engineering requirements and personal preference. This study presents a systematic approach called "desirability-based design" to provide a directed multi-purpose optimal design that considers the various aspects of the project. This flexible treatment of the problem can be easily achieved through soft-computing methods. This study developed an evolutionary fuzzy system for designing the structures under consideration. Fuzzy logic was integrated with genetic algorithm to build a decision-making fuzzy system based on expert knowledge. This system was allowed to conduct a design process using the designer's decision-making tasks. Illustrative examples show the practicality and efficiency of the proposed methodology for structural and architectural designs of several space structures.