13. OPTIMIZATION

CHAPTER 13 'OPTIMISATION' 6 where the general Minimum and Maximum dimensional limits and the Step of change of these dimensions defined for each type of structural element. ATTENTION! • The above dialogue box only applies to reinforced concrete elements. • The limits are defined for each type of structural element (Columns, Beams, Slabs and Walls). • For poles, two "categories" of dimensions are defined: The first one (b/h) which concerns all large dimensions, regardless of the type of cross-section (rectangular, Gamma, Tau, etc.). The second dimension (t) refers to the corresponding small dimensions, mainly thicknesses. • For the beams, the limits of their two basic dimensions defined, i.e. width (bw) and height (h). The value limits for the thickness of the plates are then set. This includes conventional plates as well as those simulated with finite surface elements. Finally, in the "Walls" section, the boundaries of the vertical elements simulated with finite surface elements are defined. OBSERVATION: The value 0 in the maximum and minimum limit fields means that the program takes as lower limit the original value of the element's dimension decreased by 30% and as upper limit again the original value increased by 30%. This variable applies only to the dimensions of beams and columns.