Shape optimization of continuum structures by genetic algorithm and boundary element method

Abstract

This paper presents a new scheme for the shape optimization of continuum structures by using genetic algorithm (GA) and boundary element methods (BEM). The profiles of the objects under consideration are represented by the free-form deformation (FFD) technique. The chromosomes for the profiles are defined by considering as the genes the position vectors of the FFD control points. The population, which is constructed of many chromosomes, is modified by applying genetic operations such as the selection, the crossover and the mutation for determining a better profile for the design objectives. Besides, the objective functions are estimated by the BEM. Three schemes are presented in order to improve the computational efficiency of the present scheme. Finally, a cantilever beam under uniformly distributed load is considered as a numerical example.