The principle and procedure of bi-directional evolutionary structural optimization (BESO) are stated in detail. A program based on BESO is introduced in conceptual bridge design. Topology optimizations are achieved for deck arch bridges with different rise-to-span ratios, half-through arch bridge, through tied arch bridge, bridge pier and bridge main beam. The results demonstrate rational structures with well-distributed stress and smooth force transmission, which indicates the efficient of the method.
