ABSTRACT
The Virtual Work Optimization Method (VWOM) can be used to optimize structures with semi-rigid connections. The VWOM is an automated method that optimizes the mass of structures with a given geometry, multiple deflection criteria and load cases. Members are selected from a predefined database to meet building code strength and stiffness criteria. Connections are modelled using rotational springs. The rotational stiffness of connections is varied from rigid to pinned. An example of a one-story building is used to explain the method. A four-story one-bay building is optimized for mass. All connections in the structure were assumed to have the same rotational stiffness. The VWOM produced results 44.6% lighter than results found in the literature.
