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Modern numerical methods for the optimization of large discretized systems are now well developed and highly efficient in the case of thin walled elastic structures modeled by finite elements. However, this is not yet true for structures whose components are subject simultaneously to bending and extension loads. In this paper, the idea of Generalized Optimality Criterion (GOC), set forth in previous final scientific reports for bar, membrane and pure bending elements, is extended to deal with general beam and flat shell elements. The modifications brought to the GOC result in explicit approximations for the behavior constraints.(Author)