COMPARING TRUSS SIZING AND SHAPE OPTIMIZATION EFFECTS FOR 17 BAR TRUSS PROBLEM

Abstract

This article aims to demonstrate the difference in results for minimal weight optimization for a 17 bar truss sizing and shape optimization problem. In order to attain results which can be produced in practice Euler bucking, minimal element length, maximal stress and maximal displacement constraints were used. Using the same initial setup, optimization was conducted using particle swarm optimization algorithm and compared to genetic algorithm. Optimal results for both algorithms are compared to initial values which are analytically calculated. The individual element lengths are observed, along with the overall weight, surface area and included number of different cross-sections.