Compromise: An effective approach for the design of damage tolerant structural systems

Abstract

In this paper, a general multiple objective formulation of the Compromise Decision Support Problem is applied to the design of damage tolerant structural systems. Damage tolerant design of structural systems is discussed in general and a design methodology is developed. A structure designed with damage tolerant considerations will have the capability to resist several levels of failure. To support the design methodology, a mathematical template for the design of a damage tolerant structural system is detailed. The basis for the template is the compromise decision support problem. Finally, the effectiveness of the formulation is demonstrated through the solution of a 13-bar truss. The results of the solutions are examined and insights are noted and discussed. The emphasis, however, is on the method and its capabilities and not on the utility of the final 13-bar truss design.