Structural layout assessment by orthogonal array based simulation

A common simulation approach, widely employed in industry for optimal process/product design, is applied in this paper to the sensitivity analysis of structural systems. It is shown how orthogonal array based technique, once suitably customized, may result in a valuable piece of information for the design process. Based on a limited number of numerical experiments properly arranged, structural layout assessment-a typical decision making task with its potential benefits for safety and/or functional performance-is investigated in the light of both analysis of variance and Taguchi method. A specific computer model is implemented for operation and a 3D truss structure is tested for discussion of attainable results.