Integration of reduction and expansion processes in layout optimization

A two-stage layout optimization procedure, consisting of reduction and expansion processes, is presented. The object in developing this procedure is to use the advantages of both processes. In the reduction process, a reduced structure with a limited number of members and joints is established by solving large scale idealized problems. An expansion process is then employed, where members and joints are added to the initial reduced structure. At this stage, relatively small problems are solved, considering general variables, all relevant constraints and the real objective function.