Fuzzy genetic optimization on performance-based seismic design of reinforced concrete bridge piers with single-column type

This paper presents a fuzzy genetic optimization for performance-based seismic design (PBSD) of reinforced concrete (RC) bridge piers with single-column type. The design is modeled as a constrained optimization problem with the objective of minimizing construction cost subject to the constraints of qualified structural capacity and suitable reinforcement arrangements for the designed RC pier. A violation of the constraints is combined with construction cost to serve as the objective function. The fuzzy logic control (FLC), which adapts the penalty coefficients in the genetic algorithm (GA) optimization solver, was employed to avoid a penalty that is too strong or too weak through the entire calculation so that a feasible solution can be obtained efficiently.