Metaheuristic-based optimal design of truss structures using algebraic force method

Abstract

In the present study, the algebraic force method (AFM) is employed, as the analysis tool, for the optimal design of truss structures using meta-heuristics algorithms. The use of the force method in place of the displacement approach leads to a reduction of the necessary CPU time. In order to compare the performance of the AFM, three planar and spatial well-studied benchmark trusses are being considered. The results show that utilizing the AFM in structural weight optimization when the Degree of Statical Indeterminacy (DSI) is smaller than the Degree of Kinemati Indeterminacy (DKI) results in considerable time-reduction. Also, due to amenability, simplicity, and generality, the AFM can be utilized for discrete structural analysis easier than other classes of force methods. In addition, in this paper, the optimization procedure is conducted by Improved Vibrating Particle System (IVPS) algorithm as a recently developed method.