Structural optimization of an aircraft horizontal stabilizer by using genetic algorithm

In this study, structural optimization of the horizontal stabilizer of an aircraft is done by the help of Genetic Algorithm (GA), which is a more recent method compared to other optimization methods. Since Genetic Algorithm offers rational solutions in a short time, it is superior to conventional optimization methods. One of the most important parameters in aircraft structures is the weight of the aircraft. Reducing the weight of the existing structure is important in terms of cost and performance. In this study, the finite element model of the horizontal stabilizer is created, loads are applied to the finite element model and forces are defined for each element. By conserving strength of structural elements with the help of GA code, parameters are optimized and weight is reduced. In this study, finite element analysis modeling is made in MSC.PATRAN software, the analysis is done by MSC.NASTRAN software, MATLAB 7.0 is used to solve the GA?s and the obtained results are presented with charts and graphs.