Prerequisites for Using Genetic Algorithm Optimization of Structural Systems in the Conceptual Design Phase

Paper in proceeding, 2025

The construction industry is undergoing a transformative shift towards environmental sustainability. This shift demands that building projects not only adapt to traditional benchmarks of time and cost but also integrate considerations for minimizing CO2 equivalent emissions. In this context, the critical decision of choosing an optimal structural system during the concept exploration phase becomes crucial to lowering the environmental footprint in the industry. Understanding a building’s carbon emission inthe conceptual design phase will become even more essential. Therefore, this study explores the possibilities of using genetic algorithms (GA), a multicriteria optimization method inspired by the evolution process, as a work support for structural engineers in early design phases. This study is performed to design a database and investigate the prerequisites for software using genetic algorithms to optimize structural systems based on cost and environmental impact.