Discrete-variable optimal structural design using tabu search

Abstract

Tabu search is a discrete-variable optimization algorithm with the ability to avoid entrapment by local optima and hence continue searching for a global optimum. In this paper tabu search is applied to the optimal structural design, in terms of weight minimization, of two standard (test) structural configurations; a 10-bar planar truss and a 25-bar space truss. The design variables are the cross-sectional areas of the bars, which take discrete values.An implementation of tabu search in a structural design context is presented which features fl-depth neighbourhoods and a search back-track facility. Investigations show that tabu search may readily cope with problem formulations that include buckling, gravity effects and design variables with realistic values. Furthermore, compared to previous research, superior (i.e. lower) minimum weights may be obtained.It is shown that tabu search is a technically viable technique for use in optimal structural design, although, for practical use, current (significant) execution times may inhibit its utilisation.

Optimal Structural Design by Ant Colony Optimization

“…Formal details of this process, in a structural design context, are given in Refs. [14,15]. Using tabu search alone on the same 25-bar space truss of this study Bland [14,15] found that the lowest weight was obtained with a neighbourhood size of 2nX designs, where the number of members n =25 and the depth of search X =4.…”

Comparison of robustness of metaheuristic algorithms for steel frame optimization

“…Tabu search (TS) was first used for structural design optimization by Bland [8] and has been used by Kargahi et al [21] to optimize the design of unbraced steel frames, and by Degertekin et al [22] for the optimization of geometrically nonlinear steel frames. Tabu search uses memory of past search results in order to try and escape local optima.…”

“…Tabu search is a method that focuses on escaping local optima by avoiding areas that have previously been visited. It was adapted for steel frame design optimization by Bland [8]. The above six algorithms are the commonly used metaheuristic algorithms found in the literature for steel frame design optimization.…”

Connection topology optimization of steel moment frames using metaheuristic algorithms

“…Tabu search was first used for structural design optimization by Bland [22] and has been used by Kargahi et al [23] and Degertekin et al [24] for optimization of steel frames, among others. The following are the important steps in the proposed tabu search algorithm incorporating connection topology as design variables:…”