Abstract
Formulation of the problem of optimal design for beams with unspecified support position and stiffness is presented. It is assumed that the beam is composed of segments of unspecified cross‐sections and lengths which are to be determined together with support positions and cross‐sections. Design for specified mean compliance, first frequency of free vibrations or buckling force is considered and proper optimality criteria are derived. Illustrative examples are presented and the iterative algorithm of numerical solution is discussed in detail.

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