Discrete Variables with a Two Bar Truss Design
We are revisiting the two-bar truss problem but with design variables allowed only at discrete values instead of continuous values. In many engineering design problems, the design variables are not continuous but are possible only at select levels known as “discrete” values. These levels may be binary (e.g. 0 or 1), integer (e.g. 5, 6, 7, 8), or at real number values (e.g. 0.05, 0.10, 0.20, 0.50). Recall that we are interested in designing a truss that has a minimum weight, will not yield, will not buckle, and does not deflect "excessively”.
This assignment can be completed in groups of two. Additional guidelines on individual, collaborative, and group assignments are provided under the Expectations link.