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Cross-section parameter constraints and
increments can be defined. Clicking on the
lock icon locks the parameter to its original
value. To set any parameter to a desired
value set the lower and upper bound to the
same value.
The algorithm tries to find a cross-section
which is as close to the maximum efficiency
as possible and is closest to the selected
objective of optimization.
Too big intervals and/or too small increments makes the search space extremely large and as
a result, the calculation time increases and/or the convergence slows down. So it is important
to set the ranges around the estimated optimum.
If an optimization group contains multiple design members, the overall efficiency will be the
highest efficiency of the members. Therefore it is not recommended to place members with
different length or internal forces into the same optimization group.
Optimization
After setting the parameters go to the Optimization tab to run the optimization for the
selected load case, combination, envelope or critical combination.
The table displays the group parameters and the results of the optimization (weight per
length unit, weight reduction, width and heoight. The Opt. column can be used to control
which group is to be optimized.
If optimization was based on predefined shapes a dropdown list can be opened with all
checked and usable cross-sections sorted from higher efficiency to lower.
The Replace column controls which cross-sections are to be replaced. Clicking on the Replace
cross-sections button will actually replace the cross-sections in the selected groups.
 Cross-section optimization may be a time-consuming task depending on the range of candidates
and the size of groups so in case of a large search space (e.g. parametric optimization) it is
recommended not to choose the slower AutoMcr method for lateral buckling calculations.