Optimization of masonry units for single leaf walls using a Genetic Algorithm

• Type: Article in International Conference Proceedings Book
• Date: 2012

Authors

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

Conference proceedings International

Title: EngOpt 2012 - 3rd International Conference on Engineering Optimization

Pages: 1-8

EngOpt 2012 - 3rd International Conference on Engineering Optimization

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, July 1-5, 2012

Scientific classification

FOS: Engineering and technology > Other engineering and technologies

CORDIS: Technological sciences

Other information

Abstract (EN): Nowadays new masonry solutions are growing, due to thermal efficiency requirements including the new European Directives regulations. To answer these new challenges two ways are mainly available, to add higher thickness of thermal insulation in association with current masonry units walls, or to change masonry units, combining improved thermal insulation with enough mechanical resistance. This paper describes the recent development of a new masonry system, based on lightweight concrete units, intended for construction of large single leaf external walls without thermal insulation materials. A detailed analysis and optimization using the finite element method have been performed, under thermal behaviour. A developed computational method searches a new topology for lightweight concrete blocks that will perform according to today¿s normative requests exhibiting optimal thermal insulation behaviour. The optimisation problem considers an objective function that measures the masonry wall thermal performance calculated through three-dimensional finite element computer simulations. A genetic algorithm is proposed in order to obtain the optimal solution. An illustrative example of vertically perforated blocks is presented demonstrating the applicability and efficiency of the optimization method. Concerns with mechanical behaviour, productivity and ergonomic are also considered according to their importance in the final cost.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

Notes: Session on "Civil Engineering", Livro de resumos: pp.20, CD-ROM: paper ref 339 com 8 páginas

No. of pages: 8