Optimal design of Schwedler and ribbed domes via hybrid Big Bang–Big Crunch algorithm

An optimum topology design algorithm based on the hybrid Big Bang–Big Crunch optimization (HBB–BC) method is developed for the Schwedler and ribbed domes. A simple procedure is defined to determine the Schwedler and ribbed dome configuration. This procedure includes calculating the joint coordinates and element constructions. The nonlinear response of the dome is considered during the optimization process. The effect of diagonal members on the results is investigated and the optimum results of Schwedler domes obtained by the HBB–BC method demonstrate the efficiency of these domes to cover large areas without intermediate supports.