Long span Roof Optimization through Parametric Design in Structural Optimization

Modern infrastructure relies on long-span roofs to provide clear spaces at airports, rail stations, show halls, sports arenas, industrial facilities, retail malls, and other public structures. Due to weight, deflection, stability issues, material utilisation, and construction cost, long-span roofs are difficult to design. The iterative trial-error methodology used in most structural design methodologies is wasteful when several variables affect structural performance. Parametric design and computational optimisation allow designers to automatically generate, assess, and optimise various structural possibilities in a single digital environment. Parametric design and structural optimisation are used to optimise long-span roof structures in this paper. Parametric modelling lets designers dynamically modify geometric factors like span length, roof curve, structural depth, grid spacing, member size, etc. without affecting the structural system. Using finite element methods, parametric models are evaluated for stresses, deflections, member utilisation, and structural behaviour under specified loading. Optimisation approaches will uncover structural configurations that reduce weight/material usage while meeting minimum strength, service-life, and stability requirements. New integrated design approaches increase design efficiency and reduce engineering time by embracing digital modelling, structural evaluation, and optimisation. Heavy structure, maximum deflection, stress distribution, buckling strength, and material utilisation will be used to compare conventional versus optimised roof designs. This project will examine how computing may contribute to sustainable construction by optimising the structure to use less steel, reduce embodied carbon emissions, and cut manufacturing costs without compromising structural integrity. This research shows that parametric optimisation may create lightweight, cost-effective, and sustainable long-span roofs. The automated creation of design alternatives allows for more structural combinations and higher structural performance and material efficiency than traditional techniques. This paper proposes a framework to help structural engineers, architects, and researchers create optimised roof systems for modern infrastructure projects and promote digital engineering and sustainable construction.