Optimum Design of Steel Space Truss Roofs with Solar Panels Using Rao-2 Algorithm

Steel space truss roof (SSTR) systems are widely used in structures with large spans such as stadiums, sports halls, and shopping malls, as well as in industrial buildings such as factories, workshops, and production facilities. Solar panels are integrated into SSTR systems to enable these structures to generate their own energy and increase the use of sustainable energy sources. With the installation of solar panels, an additional load is placed on the roofs. However, this raises questions about whether existing roofs can withstand this additional weight without compromising their design. In this study, it is aimed to optimize the cross sections of the SSTR system selected as an example with and without solar panels with the Rao-2 algorithm. To optimize the SSTR system, a computer code was created in MATLAB, which works effectively with the Rao-2 algorithm and SAP2000's Open Applicable Programming Interface (OAPI) features and allows repetitive analysis. In addition, it will be checked whether the existing roofs can safely carry the solar panels. This study reduces the use of materials by ensuring that SSTR elements are used in optimum cross section. It also contributes to a sustainable future by reducing costs and minimizing environmental impacts.