Weight minimization of truss structures with sizing and layout variables using integrated particle swarm optimizer

Abstract

This study investigates the performances of the integrated particle swarm optimizer (iPSO) algorithm in the layout and sizing optimization of truss structures. The iPSO enhances the standard PSO algorithm employing both the concept of weighted particle and the improved fly-back method to handle optimization constraints. The performance of the recent algorithm is tested on a series of well-known truss structures weight minimization problems including mixed design search spaces (i.e. with both discrete and continuous variables) over various types of constraints (i.e. nodal displacements, element stresses and buckling criterion). The results demonstrate the validity of the proposed approach in dealing with combined layout and size optimization problems.

Keywords:

• particle swarm optimizer
• combined sizing/layout optimization
• trusses
• structural optimization

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Ali Mortazavi

Ali MORTAZAVI. Received the BSc and MSc degrees in 2007 and 2010 from the Department of Civil Engineering from Azad University, Iran respectively. He received his PhD degree from the Department of Civil Engineering from Ege University in May, 2017. His research interest includes finite element method, optimization, computer programming, and structural behaviors.

Vedat Toğan

Vedat TOĞAN. Received the BSc and MSc degrees in 2000 and 2004 from the Department of Civil Engineering from Karadeniz Technical University, Turkey respectively. He received his PhD degree from the same university in 2009. He is working as an Associate Professor at Civil Engineering Department of Karadeniz Technical University. His research interest includes meta-heuristic algorithms, optimization, reliability analysis, and construction managements.

Ayhan Nuhoğlu

Ayhan NUHOĞLU. Received the BSc and MSc degrees in 1987 and 1990 from the Department of Civil Engineering from Karadeniz Technical University and Anadolu University Turkey respectively. He received his PhD degree from Anadolu University in 1997. He has been working as an Assistant Professor at Civil Engineering Department of Ege University since 1998. His research interest includes structural engineering, and structural behaviors.