Multi-objective optimisation for shape design of parabolic double-curvature arch dams

Volume XVII Issue 1

The multi-objective optimisation model is established for the shape design of parabolic double-curvature arch dam. Four objectives are considered – dam volume, maximal tensile stress, maximal pressure stress and relative depth of the zone with tensile stress larger than 1.0MPa. The cooperative game model is used as the multi-objective optimisation method, and is also compared to traditional techniques, such as weighted sum method and utopia point method. The optimisation of Baihetan arch dam, which is located China’s Sichuan province, is calculated as an engineering example. The results indicate that the cooperative game theory method is superior to traditional methods. The optimal design saves 9.77x104m3 of dam volume, compared to the initial design, along with the decrease of maximal tensile stress by 38.22%, the decrease of maximal pressure stress by 28.83%, and the decrease of relative depth of large tensile stress zone by 10.15%.