Design smartness for tackling unanticipated loads

Studies were performed to choose from different designs to satisfy "buffer requirements" to bring in "smartness" in the design choice. It was observed that for a given span, moment-either ultimate or design state- and given strengths, number of "smart designs" with buffer indications can be generated to satisfy different criteria. This was illustrated with some examples for a typical span and given external moment, modeling either a bridge section or part of a frame member. It was evident that there is no unique design that satisfies all parameters simultaneously.