An optics inspired optimization method for optimal design of truss structures

Abstract

SummaryThis paper presents optics inspired optimization (OIO) as a new optimization technique for optimum design of truss structures with continuous variables. In OIO, the physical laws that govern the image formation in spherical mirrors are artificially modeled to develop a new metaheuristic method. In OIO, the surface of the objective function to be minimized is considered as the reflecting wavy mirror consisting of peaks and valleys. In the reflecting surface, each peak is assumed to reflect as a convex mirror and each valley to reflect as a concave one. By assuming each solution candidate as an artificial object (or light point) that is artificially glittered ray is reflected back by the function surface, the artificial image (new solution) is formed based on the governing equations in physics of optics. Compared with the other existing optimization techniques, OIO seems to be a promising alternative approach for solving truss optimum design problems.