A novel PGSA–PSO hybrid algorithm for structural optimization
ISSN: 0264-4401
Article publication date: 7 August 2019
Issue publication date: 16 January 2020
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to propose a new hybrid algorithm, named improved plant growth simulation algorithm and particle swarm optimization hybrid algorithm (PGSA–PSO hybrid algorithm), for solving structural optimization problems.
Design/methodology/approach
To further enhance the optimization efficiency and precision of this algorithm, the optimization solution process of PGSA–PSO comprises two steps. First, an excellent initial growth point is selected by PSO. Then, the global optimal solution can be obtained quickly by PGSA and its improved strategy called growth space adjustment strategy. A typical mathematical example is provided to verify the capacity of the new hybrid algorithm to effectively improve the global search capability and search efficiency of PGSA. Moreover, PGSA–PSO is applied to the optimization design of a suspended dome structure.
Findings
Through typical mathematical example, the improved strategy can improve the optimization efficiency of PGSA considerably, and an initial growth point that falls near the global optimal solution can be obtained. Through the optimization of the pre-stress of a suspended dome structure, compared with other methods, the hybrid algorithm is effective and feasible in structural optimization.
Originality/value
Through the examples of suspended dome structure, it shows that the optimization efficiency and precision of PGSA–PSO are better than those of other algorithms and methods. PGSA–PSO is effective and feasible in structural optimization problems such as pre-stress optimization, size optimization, shape optimization and even topology optimization.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This work was supported by the Opening Project of State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Building Science, South China University of Technology, China (Grant Number 2019ZB27) and the Science and Technology Program of Guangzhou, China (Grant Number 1563000257).
Citation
Jiang, Z., Lin, Q., Shi, K. and Pan, W. (2020), "A novel PGSA–PSO hybrid algorithm for structural optimization", Engineering Computations, Vol. 37 No. 1, pp. 144-160. https://doi.org/10.1108/EC-01-2019-0025
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2019, Emerald Publishing Limited