Sensitivity analysis and optimal design of 3D frame structures for stress and frequency constraints

The present paper deals with the problem of determining the optimal joint positions and cross-sectional parameters of linearly elastic space frames with imposed stress and free frequency constraints. The frame is assumed to be acted on by different load systems, including temperature and self-weight loads. The stress state analysis includes tension, bending, shear, and torsion of beam elements. By a sequence of quadratic programming problems, the optimal design is attained. The sensitivity analysis of distinct as well as multiple frequencies is performed through analytic differentiation with respect to design parameters. Illustrative examples of optimal design of simple and medium complexity frames are presented, and the particular case of bimodal optimal solution is considered in detail.