Minimum weight design of truss structures using value encoding in genetic algorithm

SUMMARY Minimum Weight Design of Truss Structures Using Value Encoding in Genetic Algorithm Genetic algorithm is an optimization technique based on mechanism of natural selection. Unlike other optimization techniques, genetic algorithm uses discrete design variable. Genetic algorithm uses an initial population consisting of solution string and a set of natural selection operation such as reproduction, crossover and mutation. The purpose of this study is to design the minimum weight truss structures by using value encoding in genetic algorithm. The genetic algorithm program coded in FORTRAN includes displacement, stress and stability constraints. In the analysis of truss structures, Matrix Analysis of Structures is used. This study consists of four chapters. In the first chapter, some information about optimization technique and purpose of the study are given. In the second chapter, some truss structure examples taken from literature are solved by using genetic algorithm. Design results obtained in this study are compared with the design results given in the literature. In the third chapter, the conclusion drawn from this study and some recommendations are given. This chapter is followed by the list of references. It is concluded that the program coded by using value encoding in genetic algorithm can be effectively used in the minimum weight design of truss structures. Keywords: Minimum Weight Design, Genetic Algorithm, Value Encoding, Discrete Design Variables, Truss Structures VI