Bridging the gap between mathematical optimization and structural engineering: Design, experiments and numerical simulation of optimized concrete girders

Concrete, as the most widely used construction material, is associated with a high environmental impact. Within present study, structural optimization method of choice to counter this issue. The entire process, from optimization, design, experiments and numerical simulation outlined. Embedded in framework design competition (Concrete Girder Optimization Competition 2021), bridge between engineering mathematical demonstrated. Two concepts for optimized concrete girders, one internal external reinforcement, yet both based on strut-and-tie modeling, were investigated. boundaries competition, several conclusions can be drawn: results indicate importance an adequate interpretation topology obtain satisfying performance. evaluation outlines that reinforcement mass has substantial share total Global Warming Potential. A successful re-simulation selected girders serve modeling base other researchers. Compared conventionally designed girder increase resource efficiency, measured by load-carrying capacity versus impact, more than 30% was achieved.