Buckling optimization of multi segment column with variable section (Variable slope)

    Abstract   In this study optimization problem of multi-segment column with uniform (constant) and variable section is investigated. Design variables defined to be the radius of gyration and length of each segment. The objective function is critical buckling load. The object (purpose) of optimization is maximization of the buckling load. Several problems with various boundary conditions including clamped–free, clamped–clamped and pinned–pinned are solved. For variable section problems, the variation of radius of gyration is a linear function of length assumed. Results for one-segment, two-segment and three-segment column with variable slope are presented. Furthermore for extending (developing) the algorithm, slop of each segment is defined as a optimization parameter and one-segment, two-segment and three-segment columns results are investigated. For a number of problems with constant radius of gyration or partly uniform segment, remaining variables except known values are optimized