A new procedure for post-buckling analysis of plane trusses using genetic algorithm

Abstract

In this research, a new minimization-based controlled method was proposed to analyze steel plane truss structures undergoing large deformations. Non-linear solution was acquired by minimizing a constrained optimization problem via the genetic algorithm. The suggested procedure can directly predict buckling load and its corresponding displacements, and precisely trace equilibrium path of geometrically non-linear plane truss structures. A computer program was formed to anticipate both elastic pre- and post-buckling behaviors or any arbitrary point on equilibrium path of the structures subjected to abnormal loads. Notably, a load-deflection curve with multiple limit points and a complex snap-back phenomenon can be followed using the proposed method. Five truss examples were analyzed, and the acquired results were compared with those obtained by theoretical solution, modified arc-length, Newton-Raphson methods, and those reported in the literature to validate robustness and accuracy of the proposed procedure.