Abstract: | This paper presents an optimization method based on optimality criterion for minimum weight of structures with stability requirements. A recurrence relation is derived and the method is explained in the context of the displacement method of finite element analysis. The incipient buckling of the structure is determined by a linear eigenvalue solution. The method is programmed for trusses and frames. Illustrative problems are given to show the applicability of the method of design of structures with a large number of design variables. |