In the structural optimization problem, the aim is to decrease the amount of structural costs and weight, but the safety of platform should not violate the individual limits enforced by offshore codes. The outer diameter and thickness of members are two important variables in the optimization process and their final dimensions should be obtained according to the optimization algorithms such as ...

The joints between segmental rings can withstand a certain amount of bending moment as well as axial and shear forces. Generally, in the structural analysis of tunnel segmental lining, the joints can be modeled as elastic hinges or rotational springs, and their rigidity should be demonstrated in terms of the rigidity of the joints or their rotational stiffness. Therefore, the bending moment act...

Choosing a career within the military has many positive and negative factors associated with it. For instance, many recruits join as young adults when they are beginning to shape their own values, beliefs and attitudes about their self, world and others. The armed forces (AF) culture socialises these young adults, leading them to adopt military values and ideals as their own which they will pro...

“We are without allies amongst the Iraqi populace, including those who have benefited from the ouster of Saddam. . . . Across Baghdad, Latifiyah, Mahmudiyah, Salman Pak, Baqubah, Balad, Taji, Baiji, Ramadi, and just about everywhere else you can name, the people absolutely hate us. . . . The Iraqi people have not bought into what the Americans are selling, and no amount of military activity is ...