Optimization of Steel Portal Frames under a Parametric Structural Design Framework

This paper presents a framework for the structural design of single-story industrial steel portal frames. The structural mechanical utilization, stability, and serviceability design requirements employing a parametric structural tridimensional computational model are included. The model parameterization consists of adopting the column, rafter, purlins, and cladding span lengths as parameters, as well as the cross-section sizes of these members, the latter in accordance with the standard commercial cross section’s tables. The main outcome is the possibility to scan the range of parameters and store the structural performance ratios, generating a solution space for this structural system. This space of valid solutions attending structural code requirements defines a set of valid structural system topological configuration and dimensions, making it possible to obtain relationships between the parameters and material consumption rate. Concave-hull 2D plots are used to visualize the solution space and identify the best choice of parameters in the design process. It is shown that the solution space generation and the concave-hull 2D plots are powerful design aids that help to identify the best combination of structural system topological dimensions and cross-section types and dimensions.