Optimization of the Topology of Masonry Units From the Thermal Point of View Using a Genetic Algorithm

• Type: Article in International Conference Proceedings Book
• Date: 2006

Authors

Luísa C. Sousa (Author) FEUP; Catarina C. Castro (Author) FEUP; Carlos C. António (Author) FEUP

Conference proceedings International

Title: III European Conference on Computational Mechanics. Solids, Structures and Coupled Problems in Engineering

Pages: 1-8

III European Conference on Computational Mechanics. Solids, Structures and Coupled Problems in Engineering

Lisboa, 5 a 8 de Junho de 2006

Scientific classification

CORDIS: Technological sciences

Other information

Abstract (EN): Masonry enclosures subjected to environment conditions have a considerable economic weight in building construction cost, and they are also important when considering thermal and structural behaviour. The increasing use in Portugal of masonry blocks made with lightweight concrete demands a study of the topology of these blocks, namely the form, dimensions and distribution of the voids in order to obtain an optimized block. To maintain the interior of the building at a comfortable temperature range, the thermal behaviour of the lightweight concrete masonry block should be taken into account. Numerical simulations using the finite element method coupled with optimization techniques allow to improve the masonry performance. In this work masonry unit topology is optimized according to thermal normative requests.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 8