Metaheuristic-Based Practical Tool for Optimal Design of Reinforced Concrete Isolated Footings: Development and Application for Parametric Investigation

In the process of designing an economical structure, safety along with total cost must be balanced. This can attained by design optimization, however complex nature algorithms involved hinders its application. Further, there is a severe lack research on optimization reinforced concrete (RC) isolated footings. Therefore, main objective this to develop user-friendly tool for RC footings using advanced metaheuristic make it more practical and convenient adopt optimization. For purpose, spreadsheet-based interface created in which input parameters from original entered find best option minimum design. The Evolutionary Algorithm (EA) Genetic (GA) are used as techniques four examples literature compared optimized obtained developed demonstrate efficiency. considered case studies, cost-saving up 44% has been obtained. Furthermore, parametric investigation GA performed through detailed analysis geometric reinforcement material strength variables conducted. results lead derivation useful thumb rules proportioning