MSc Worklpan & Evidence Portfolio

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SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING AND INFORMATICS

MSC PROJECT PLAN:

Size and topology optimisation of a steel-space frame roof structure using evolutionary computation

SUBMISSION DATE: 15 SEPTEMBER 2015

4/24/2015

CM – 1073D

Submitted by: Project Supervisor:

Vasileios Karkantzos Dr. Jian Ping Li

UoB: 09023570

WORD COUNT: 2753

Advanced Project Skills

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Table of Contents

1 Introduction .................................................................................................................... 3

2 Aim ................................................................................................................................ 4

3 Objectives ...................................................................................................................... 4

4 Methodology .................................................................................................................. 5

5 Resource requirements .................................................................................................. 5

6 Time Chart ..................................................................................................................... 6

7 References .................................................................................................................... 7

8 Dissertation Structure..................................................................................................... 8

9 EVIDENCE PORTFOLIO ............................................................................................. 10

9.1 Academic Reading and Writing Skills .................................................................... 10

9.2 Individual Skills and Learning Strategies ............................................................... 11

9.3 Communication and Presentation Skills ................................................................ 13

9.4 Research Skills ..................................................................................................... 14

9.5 Library and Referencing Skills .............................................................................. 15

10 Appendices .............................................................................................................. 16

Appendix 1 ...................................................................................................................... 16

Appendix 2 ...................................................................................................................... 17

Appendix 3 ...................................................................................................................... 18

Appendix 4 ...................................................................................................................... 19

Appendix 5 ...................................................................................................................... 20

Appendix 6 ...................................................................................................................... 21

Appendix 7 ...................................................................................................................... 22

Appendix 8 ...................................................................................................................... 23

Appendix 9 ...................................................................................................................... 24

Appendix 10 .................................................................................................................... 25

Appendix 11 .................................................................................................................... 26

Appendix 12 .................................................................................................................... 27

Appendix 13 .................................................................................................................... 28

Appendix 14 .................................................................................................................... 29

Appendix 15 .................................................................................................................... 30

Appendix 16 .................................................................................................................... 31

Appendix 17 .................................................................................................................... 32


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1 Introduction

Optimisation techniques have been used for a wide variety of design problems in fields of

diverse such as civil, mechanical, aerospace and other types of engineering. Particularly, the

optimisation of truss structures has been one of the most active areas of research for many

years in the field of optimisation algorithms and applications in engineering. The objective of

the structural optimisation is to produce minimum weight structures with maximum strength

and stiffness by changing the layouts of structures within a specified design domain and

subject them to a set of support and loading conditions. Prior to the optimisation process,

finite element analysis method is used to ensure the adequacy of the structure. It is a fact

that structural analysis software combined with numerical optimisation codes allow the

designer to obtain a far better solution than a conventional design.

Optimisation techniques are mainly concerned with mathematical aspects and can be

combined with mathematical algorithms that improve the performance and effectiveness of

the process. It is an optimisation technique based on a parallel with genetic and searches

through a space of possible solutions. It is an attempt to maximise fitness value using

methods based on the survival of the fittest. There are several optimisation techniques and

the purpose of these techniques is to produce optimal designs that satisfy some pre-defined

parameters. Good judgement and relevant experience are needed to in order to reduce the

size of the problem and consequently reduce computational time and design cost. These

techniques are divided into three groups, such as size, shape and topology optimisation.

Each group has different features and different variables depending on the outcome that the

designer wants to have. Size optimisation is aiming to minimise cross-sectional dimensions

of structural elements while topology optimisation take cross-sectional areas of the truss

members as design variables allowing them to take the value of zero. This means that

members are redundant to the structure and can be removed without causing structural

inadequacy. Lastly, shape optimisation, looks at the shape of the initial material layout in a

design domain and can achieve additional structural efficiencies by altering the geometry of

the structure. In science and engineering, optimisation problems tend to be multimodal with

equally good solutions. The determination of multiple solutions can help the designer to fully

understand the design space and find alternative designs to satisfy design requirements.

The most popular methods for solving multimodal functions are the evolutionary

computations which are inspired from nature. The so called Genetic Algorithm (GA) uses

techniques derived from biology and results obtained from its operation are represented as a

genome or chromosome. It is an algorithm based on dynamically changing probability of

mutation, crossover and population size that maximises fitness evaluations using methods


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based on the survival of the fittest by maintaining a population of solutions of which the

poorest are eliminated in each generation. A more effective technique for solving multimodal

optimisation problems is the Species Conservation Genetic Algorithm (SCGA) which is

inspired from the field of ecology, in which the population is divided into several species

according to their similarity. According to this technique, a SCGA was introduced in order to

find multiple solutions of multimodal optimisation problems, including some problems that

are deceptive for GA’s.

In this project, a new methodology for simultaneous sizing and topology optimisation of a

steel space-frame roof structure will be presented using an adaptive species conserving

genetic algorithm (ASCGA). It is a heuristic algorithm, developed for solving multimodal

optimisation problems by defining three parameters: species seed, species radius and

species boundary fitness. A species is referred to the group of individuals with common

characteristics which are dominated by the best individual in the species, called the species

seed. With heuristic techniques, ASCGA can automatically adjust species parameters and

allow the species to adapt in the optimisation problem. Different optimal solutions of a space-

frame roof truss structure design are going to be found using the proposed techniques.

2 Aim

The main aim of this project is to create a free form-steel space frame roof structure model

within MoS software and apply simultaneous size and topology optimisation techniques in

order to decrease the weight and change the geometry of the structure using evolutionary

computation.

3 Objectives

1. Carry out an extensive literature, looking at optimisation techniques and algorithms that are

going to be used.

2. System verification, model checking.

3. Use Modelling and Optimisation System to model a steel space frame truss roof structure.

4. To apply loading conditions in accordance to Eurocode 3.

5. To create the relevant optimisation problem (setting objectives, variables and constraints).

6. To implement adaptive Genetic Algorithms (set parameters).

7. To determine optimal design(s).


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8. To analyse results and the performance of the proposed algorithm.

4 Methodology

This is a software based project. Modelling and Optimisation System (MoS) is a powerful

engineering software that uses mathematical programming techniques to solve engineering

optimisation problems. This system will be used to explore optimal designs with elastic

structure under a series of loading conditions.

Prior to the creation of the main model, a plain truss structure will be picked from a relevant

journal and will be modelled in MoS in order to check the model. A powerful approach for the

formal verification of the software that will provide reliability and correctness proofs of the

system. After the verification of the model, the space frame truss structure model will be

created as well as the optimisation problem. The optimisation problem consists of setting the

objectives, variables and constraints of the problem. The design variable of the optimisation

problem is the constituent elements of the structure with an allowable boundary of cross-

sectional areas of the perspective members (e.g. -10cm^2 – 10cm^2). This boundary will

allow the optimisation process to choose the most optimal cross areas while it will examine if

a cross member is redundant to the structure by giving a negative value to the results. This

will mean that this particular member can be removed from the structure. The constraint of

the problem will be the structure not to fail and the objective will be to minimise the weight of

the structure.

Additionally, adaptive Genetic Algorithms based on dynamically changing probability of

mutation, crossover and population size will be implemented to improve the performance of

the process and increase the quality of the results.

Finally, all the data will be analysed and discussed in terms of reliability, efficiency and

effectiveness based on the techniques that were used.

5 Resource requirements 1. Laboratory computers

2. Microsoft office 2007

3. Modelling and Optimisation System


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6 Time Chart

25-Dec-14 13-Feb-15 4-Apr-15 24-May-15 13-Jul-15 1-Sep-15

Work Plan

Literature Review

Journals, books and article

Reading and collecting information

Write Literature Review

System Verification, Model Checking

Creation of Optimisation problem and Modelling

Analysis of Results and Discussions

Reccomendations

Poster Presentation


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7 References

Hernandez S. and Brebbia C.A. (1993). ‘Optimisation of Structural Systems and

Applications’.

Papalambros, P.Y. and Chirehdast, M. , (1993) ‘Integrated Structural Optimisation System’,

NATO/ARW Topology design of structures’, Kluwer Academic Publishers, Dordecht,

Netherlands, pp. 501-514.

Li, J.-P., M. E. Balazs, G. T. Parks, and P. J. Clarkson. (2002). ‘A Genetic Algorithm Using

Species Conservation for Multimodal Function Optimization.’ Evolutionary Computation 10

(3): pp. 207–234.

Kociecki, M. and Adeli, H. (2015). Shape optimization of free-form steel space-frame roof

structures with complex geometries using evolutionary computing. Engineering Applications

of Artificial Intelligence, 38, pp.168-182.


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8 Dissertation Structure

1) Abstract

2) Chapter One: Introduction

a. Problem definition

b. Aims and Objectives

Note: Aims for research outcomes and motivation. Objectives for tasks to be completed.

c. Thesis Outline

Note: Dissertation chapter outline

3) Chapter 2: Literature Review

a. Optimisation

i. Shape

ii. Topology

iii. Size

b. Genetic Algorithm

i. GA concepts and applications

ii. GA terminologies

iii. Adapting Species Conservation Genetic Algorithm

iv. Particle Swarm Optimisation

Note: to combine the two algorithms.


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c. Space –Frame Roof structures

4) Chapter 3: Verification Model

5) Modelling and Optimisation

6) Modelling Results & Discussions

7) Conclusions

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9 EVIDENCE PORTFOLIO

9.1 Academic Reading and Writing Skills

Nature of Skill Developed

Type of Development

Location and date(s)

Critical Reflection Evidence

Critical Analysis

in Writing

(Academic Skills)

Workshop

C1.03a

Chesham

17-Mar-2015

The aim of this workshop was to provide a basic definition of critical analysis as well as examine the writing process and ways to construct critical analytical text. Then a checklist of actions when writing critically analytic test was provided.

Appendix 1

Writing Up Your Dissertation (Academic Skills)

Workshop C1.03a

Chesham

04-Mar-2015

In this workshop, strategies for tackling the writing up phrase for a dissertation were learned and tips and advice were provided in terms on structuring the whole dissertation, including how to manage appendices. Also, ideas were offered on how to organise chapters and chapter sections, as part of good structuring.

Appendix 9

Writing

Reflective

Assignments

(Academic Skills)

Workshop C1.03a

Chesham

03-Mar-2015

Within this workshop, I learned about what theory and evidence from sources are as well as I understand how they can be used in reflective writing. Also, an approach was offered about writing to help me achieve the integration of theory and evidence.

Appendix 2

Planning for your

Assignment

(Academic Skills)

Workshop B0.26a

Chesham

14-Feb-2015

This workshop helped me to identify what ‘planning’ means when tackling an assignment and its impact on marks. Moreover, the planning process was examined, in terms of where the plan fits and when to do it. Finally, some practical strategies and examples for the planning

Appendix 3


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stage of writing were delivered.

Academic

Reading

Workshop E92

Richmond

16-Feb-2015

The aim of this workshop was to help us improve our reading skills and to familiarise ourselves with digital tools such as PDG reader and Foxit Reader. Useful features for annotating and keeping notes digitally were delivered.

No evidence provided as booking wasn’t required to attend the workshop.

Although, the documentation provided in the workshop is used as an evidence.

Appendix 17

9.2 Individual Skills and Learning Strategies


Type of Development



Technical &

Islamic Heritage

Seminar

Seminar University of

Bradford

29-Oct-2014

The aim of the seminar was to inspire to

become a top engineer by learning about the

rich history of Islamic influence on modern day

engineering. The seminar also included a Skills

Talk about the key skills required to have a

successful career as an engineer. A technical

talk by Professor Iqbal Mujtaba, Professor at

the University of Bradford, about the

‘Desalination Technology to Meet World’s

Freshwater Demand’ was delivered.

Employer

presentation -

Graham

Construction

(civil &

structural)

Presentation B0.26a,

Chesham

Building

21-Jan-15

This presentation was delivered by a Senior

Engineer and a Civil & Structural Engineering

graduate. The purpose was to inform us about

the vacancies of their company and recruitment

process as well as outlining the major projects

that Graham has undertaken by giving us an

Appendix 12


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(Careers) insight about how things are running in a

construction company.

Psychometric

Tests (Careers)

Workshop B0.33,

Chesham

Building

06-Feb-15

This workshop had some useful information

with regard to understanding and how to

approach psychometric tests (Aptitude,

Personality and Situational Judgement Tests) in

general. We also had the chance to find out and

try some simple practice tests.

Appendix 11

Effective

Interviews

(Careers)

Workshop B0.33

Chesham

Building

13-Feb-15

This workshop was about delivering effective

interviews. The session included information

about why are interviews are used, types of

interviews, understanding the process, true job

questions, how to answer competency based

questions, how to prepare for an interview and

how to stand in an interview.

Appendix 13

Employer

Presentation and

Recruitment -

Hilti Group

(Careers)

Presentation Room B0.26b

Chesham

Building

25-Feb-15

This presentation was delivered by a University

Liaison Coordinator and recent graduates

employed by Hilti Group. We had the

opportunity to find out more about the company

and to meet the graduate employees to share a

testimony of their career journey so far and

what they thought of their time with the

company.

Appendix 10

A talk by

IStructE

President Tim

Ibell

Seminar JSB Theatre

Richmond

Building

18-Mar-15

President Tim Ibell presented the highlights of

his inaugural Presidential address. The main

subject of his talk was about placing creativity

and fun at the heart of our educational activities

and public engagement. These two factors are

imperative in the profession to drive the

attraction and education of future structural

No evidence provided, as seminar didn’t

need booking to attend.


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engineers.

9.3 Communication and Presentation Skills


Type of Development



Presentation

Skills (English)

Workshop Room E59

Richmond

Building

11-Mar-2015

This two hours workshop covered all the top tips for

a good oral presentation in terms of how to

prepare, how to stand on the presentation and how

to handle stress and nerves. We went through

several valuable tasks, for example, we wrote

about what make a good presentation and we were

asked to organise the structure of a presentation.

Finally, we had the chance to deliver a small

presentation in front of the class in order to gain

confidence and familiarity with oral presentations.

Appendix 7

Effective

Presentation

Design

(Academic Skills)

Workshop C1.03a

Chesham

Building

24-Mar-2015

In this workshop, the basic best-practice when

planning and preparing presentations was covered

and we explored how to use visual aid resources

effectively. Specific tips were also given on using

MS PowerPoint for presenting.

Appendix 6

Delivering

Effective

Presentations

(Academic Skills)

Workshop C1.03a

Chesham

Building

25-Mar-2015

A one hour workshop that covered tips and hints for

delivering an effective presentation. The tasks of

the workshop included the writing of what skills we

think are necessary to be developed for a good

presentation and how we can handle stress to

show these skills. Valuable advices were taught in

this workshop.

Appendix 8


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9.4 Research Skills


Type of Development



Choosing

Journal Articles

(Academic Skills)

Workshop C1.03a

Chesham

Building

17-Feb-2015

This workshop was very helpful, in terms of

deciding which articles to use in my research

project. Also, we went through reading some

abstracts from journals in order to make the right

choice. Lastly, two types of journal articles were

introduced and analysed.

Appendix 5

Research Design

(MA and MSc

students,

Academic Skills)

Workshop Room G21

Richmond

Building

13-Mar-2015

This workshop helped me to understand the

basics of research approaches due to the hints

and tips that were offered in getting to grips with

quantitative and qualitative methods. Also, the

ethical considerations that may be needed for my

research were discussed.

Appendix 4


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9.5 Library and Referencing Skills


Type of Development


Critical Reflection

(Reflect on the value of the training) (a sentence per entry)

Evidence

(Identify where the reader can verify that the development had taken place)

Library and

Referencing –

Advanced

Project Skills

Course 01.53

JBP Library

Week 1 (26-

Jan-2015) to

Week 10 (23-

Mar-2015)

These sessions were part of my

course and helped me explore a range

of digital research tools in order to

improve search results. Also, an

information sources guide for Civil

Engineers was provided to familiarise

ourselves with the search methods

depending on the type of information

we need to attain. Furthermore, a

Harvard referencing guide for

engineers was provided together with

useful tips and hints in terms of

referencing at Harvard style in order to

improve our marks.

I used as evidence the documentation we were

using in the classes together with some notes I

kept during library sessions.

Appendix 14, 15 and 16

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10 Appendices

Appendix 1


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Appendix 2


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Appendix 3


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Appendix 4


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Appendix 5


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Appendix 6


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Appendix 7


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Appendix 8


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Appendix 9


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Appendix 10


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Appendix 11


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Appendix 12


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Appendix 13


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Appendix 14


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Appendix 15


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Appendix 16


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Appendix 17

Documents

MSc Worklpan & Evidence Portfolio