An exponential big bang-big crunch algorithm for discrete design optimization of steel frames

Hasançebi O., Azad S. K.

COMPUTERS & STRUCTURES, vol.110, pp.167-179, 2012 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 110
  • Publication Date: 2012
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.compstruc.2012.07.014
  • Journal Name: COMPUTERS & STRUCTURES
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.167-179
  • Keywords: Structural optimization, Discrete optimization, Metaheuristics, Big bang-big crunch (BB-BC) algorithm, Code based design of steel frames, OPTIMUM DESIGN, PERFORMANCE
  • Middle East Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

In the present study an enhanced variant of the big bang-big crunch (BB-BC) technique, namely exponential BB-BC algorithm (EBB-BC) is developed for code based design optimization of steel frame structures. It is shown that the standard version of the BB-BC algorithm is sometimes unable to produce reasonable solutions to problems from discrete design optimization of steel frames. Hence, through investigating the shortcomings of BB-BC algorithm, it is aimed to reinforce the performance of the technique for this class of problems in particular. The study provides numerical evidences of how the performance of a well-known metaheuristic technique (BB-BC) can significantly be improved through simple yet effective modifications in its formulation to achieve a more robust and reliable variant (EBB-BC). Further, a comparison of the optimum solutions with those of other well-known metaheuristics reveals that the EBB-BC algorithm can efficiently be used as a novel tool for code based design optimization of steel frames. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.