Frequency-Constrained Optimization of a Real-Scale Symmetric Structural Using Gold Rush Algorithm

Abstract

The optimal design of real-scale structures under frequency constraints is a crucial problem for engineers. In this paper, linear analysis, as well as optimization by considering natural frequency constraints, have been used for real-scale symmetric structures. These structures require a lot of time to minimize weight and displacement. The cyclically symmetric properties have been used for decreasing time. The structure has been decomposed into smaller repeated portions termed substructures. Only the substructure elements are needed when analyzing and designing with the concept of cyclic symmetries. The frequency constrained design of real-scale structures is a complex optimization problem that has many local optimal answers. In this research, the Gold Rush Optimization (GRO) algorithm has been used to optimize weight and displacement performances due to its effectiveness and robustness against uncertainties. The efficacy of the concept of cyclic symmetry to minimize the time calculated is assessed by three examples, including Disk, Silo, and Cooling Tower. Numerical results indicate that the proposed method can effectively reduce time consumption, and that the GRO algorithm results in a 14–20% weight reduction of the problems.

Keywords

• structural optimization
• frequency constraints
• cyclic symmetry
• Gold Rush Optimization algorithm