A NON-ITERATIVE OPTIMUM DESIGN METHOD FOR CABLE-STAYED BRIDGES

A computationally efficient optimum design method is proposed. Unlike conventional optimization methods, all the optimized properties are obtained without conducting iterations. In this method, redundant forces of a statically indeterminate structure are computed from the condition of geometrical compatibilities, the members are fabricated so as to introduce prestresses which nullify the incompatibilities. Such an introduction of prestressing is compatible with conventional erecting process of cable-stayed bridges.A series of analyses have verified that this method is practical and makes it easier to determine economical structural types of cable-stayed bridges.