Optimized failure probability of steel structures using simulated annealing

In this paper the discrete optimization of steel structures using simulated annealing is described. Since buildings are constructed higher and more slender the aspect of reliability under various conditions becomes more and more important. This finds special regard since Eurocode 1 allows to use probabilistic safety concepts. Because of unexpected actions or uncertainties in materials with regard to resistance or because of changing usage of the structure in future, a sufficient reliability - this means a sufficient failure probability - must be guarded already in the planning stage. Because of considering these constraints of failure probability the probabilistic safety concept of civil engineering is introduced and it is described how to compute the failure probability of structures. While the economic point of view becomes more and more important, a cost-optimization using Simulated Annealing, considering failure probability as a constraint, would become an interesting and capable optimization concept.