Apichart Suppapitnarm

pp. 301 - 312

Abstract

The use of mathematical optimisation methods in the engineering design process has traditionally
been restricted to the detailed design stage. Using the design of a frame structure as a case study, this paper
explores the potential of a heuristicly refined multiobjective random search approach to conceptual design
stage. The key elements of this approach are 1) a random search based optimisation method (to simulate
creativity), 2) designer-specified heuristics (some grammatical rules to allow different frame configurations
to be explored), and 3) a multiobjective optimisation approach (to identify competing concepts occupying
different parts of the trade-off surface). The results presented demonstrate the success of this approach in
exploring a multiplicity of different design configurations and presenting the designer with a variety of
Pareto-optimal concepts worthy of further consideration.

Keywords

• generative grammars
• multiobjective optimisation
• topology optimisation
• conceptual design