Integrated Design Optimization System of Supporting Structures for Tower Cranes

The supporting structure for a tower crane is crucial and its design is quite complicated due to multiple design considerations.At present, such structural design period for a tower crane in Hong Kong is time-consuming; final design is not optimal and material may be partly utilized; and the lack of professional design software causes the redundant calculation for design and scheme modifications.In order to solve the problems aforementioned, a design optimization system for the supporting structures of a tower crane had been established; design procedure and modules had been standardized and integrated with construction to take into account all kinds of tower crane types commonly used and their corresponding supporting structures including H-shaped steel beams and footings, respectively.The design optimization system can help engineers greatly speed up the design process and achieve cost effectiveness.In addition, standardization of the design process and modules will improve the design quality and structural safety.