Please Can Matlab Optimisation Toolbox solve this problem?

Please! I am seeking an urgent guidance or advice in OPTIMISATION TOOLBOX

I am working on Design optimisation of steel space structure. I have coded the analysis and design properly and can be run smoothly. However, I need to apply all the varibles, constraints and objective function to get the optimum solution.

The variables I have here are a bit confusing (107 steel sections are my variable). Assume I have a structural building with 8 elements, each element has got 107 sections to try with. All the structure should be analaysed and designed at one time "not each memeber individuallY" meaning that each element needs to be tested with all the sections. This means I have 107*107*107*107*107*107*107*107= bilons of trials.

The constraints are the cross sectional resistance such as compression resistance, shear resistance, Bending moment resistance, flexural buckling resistance, Lateral torsional buckling resistance and deflection. these should be <=1.

The objective function is the minimum weight and minimum cost.

What is the best method to use especially I have big structures. could I have anyone to help me with this matter, providing me guidance and advices.

I suggest to share the screen and explain more details will be more easier.

Many thanks

[Alan Weiss]

I am not sure how to help you. Optimization Toolbox™ functions can easily handle thousands of variables. You seem to have a two-objective problem. You can Generate and Plot a Pareto Front, or you can minimize a weighted combination of your objectives.

Are your variables integer-valued? This can greatly increase the complexity of your problem and solution process.

Oftentimes, using the problem-based approach is easiest when dealing with a large number of variables. However, you will have to make a scalar objective function, such as a weighted sum of your two objectives.

Good luck,

Alan Weiss

MATLAB mathematical toolbox documentation