الفهرس 
Chapter 1 : IntroductionOnly 14 pages are availabe for public view
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Abstract
Steel portal frames are extensively used in single storey buildings. Maximizing structural efficiency of these frames can be achieved by controlling frames’ topology. In the present work, a new software tool is developed to include all aspects of analysis, optimization and design of portal steel frames. A stiffness matrix is developed for non-prismatic members while Genetic Algorithms are adopted and linked to a Finite Element package to search for the optimal design. Various examples in terms of geometry and loading conditions are considered. Design optimization is conducted according to the Egyptian Code of Practice. Performance of the developed algorithm is validated by comparing the obtained solutions with results published in the literature, which indicate that the efficiency and robustness of the present approach. Furthermore, the new tool is utilized to conduct parametric studies so as to produce design tables and graphs for the optimal designs of portal steel frames.