The issue of generality in design optimization systems

This paper attempts to convey some of the author's experiences in constructing and using systems for design optimization with as much generality as necessary to solve practical engineering design problems. A number of examples demonstrate that real-life design often calls for facilities that were difficult to foresee when the optimization system was devised. The conclusion contains two important points: a) in today's use of design optimization systems, the definition of the problem must often be modified to suit the capabilities of the system at hand, and b) the construction of design optimization systems with the necessary generality and flexibility to function in an engineering design environment is a problem that merits independent research beyond the traditional, fundamental investigations into mechanical properties of optimum structures and solution methods. The paper points out a number of important areas for further research.