A method for selecting the optimum design parameters in the design of reinforced concrete slabs is presented. The optimum is selected from within the feasible region in the design space defined by the limit state requirements of CP110. Cost of material is treated as the objective function and is optimised subject to the behaviour and side constraints imposed by the limit state requirements. Initially, the optimum solution for a section is obtained considering only the ultimate limit state requirement. This is then modified, if required, to ensure that it lies within the feasible region defined by the serviceability limit state requirements for the member. From this result, the optimum design parameters for members having uniform, triangular
or parabolic moment, distributions are obtained. Curves for selecting optimum design parameters are also given.
D.J. Gunaratnam and N.S. Sivakumaran