Optimum design of RC footing subject to axial load and bi-directional flexure using differential evolution algorithm

Abstract

In this study, the optimum design of the reinforced concrete (RC) footings subject to the axial load and bi-directional flexure was performed by using Differential Evolution (DE) algorithm. The minimum cost of concrete and steel materials was targeted in the developed approach as the decision variables of foundation dimensions, reinforcement numbers and diameters. In addition to seven different decision variables, eighteen different constraint functions are included in the optimization model for the TS-500 Standard requirements. Optimum solutions of many different reinforced concrete footing examples are presented by creating different axial load ratios, eccentricity and allowable bearing value of soil scenarios. It has been shown that a DE-based solution approach can be used effectively in the optimum design of a reinforced concrete footing.