Optimum Seismic Design of Steel Moment Resisting Frames by Genetic Algorithms

Applying elastic methods in the design of steel moment resisting frames (SMRF) and notrecognizing the redistribution of moments in the inelastic range, do not guarantee a suitable seismic behavior in earthquakes. In order to be able to predict and control the inelastic behavior under seismic loading and to determine the corresponding load factor, the design of SMRF is studied in this paper. Classic concepts of plastic analysis and genetic algorithms are combined to arrive at an optimal proportioning of the frame members. Various examples, along with studies on the parameters of the employed genetic algorithm are also presented within this work.