Design Optimization of Concrete-Slab Forms

This paper presents a design optimization method for all-wood concrete-slab forms. This procedure was formulated to provide for a safe slab-form design with minimum cost. It considers in its design process the cost of each slab-form component (sheathing, joist, stringer, and wood shore) and all available combinations of slab-form components. The performance of the optimum design method is compared to that of the traditional design method, which uses design charts/tables. The optimum design method was found to have a potential cost savings over the traditional design method. A study was conducted to confirm these cost savings. The results of the study show that cost savings as high as 9.9% were achieved by using the design optimization method.