Optimum design of reinforced fiber concrete subjected to bending and geometrical constraints

Optimization is a decisive factor in structural engineering designs. With the increasing use of reinforced fiber concrete in structural applications, the problem of minimizing its cost should be addressed. This paper presents a computer algorithm that provides the optimum design for reinforced fiber concrete rectangular beams subjected to bending. Four design variables are considered, namely; the beam width, the beam depth, the steel fiber content, and the area of reinforcing rebars. A systematic direct automated search is conducted to obtain the optimum solutions. Comparative cost objective functions are presented to prove the validity of the algorithm.