Using genetic algorithms for optimal design of trusses

The paper presents a method for optimizing the design of plane and space trusses subject to a specified set of constraints. The method is based upon a search technique using genetic algorithms. Traditional structural optimization techniques consider it continuous search space, and consequently lead to unrealistic solutions because structural members are not available in continuously varying sizes. A practical method should consider only the discrete values associated with commonly available materials. On the other hand, most modern structural optimization techniques, even when they consider a discrete search space, suffer a lack of generality, and tend to be limited to a certain kind of structure. Genetic algorithms remedy these two problems since they can deal with discrete search spaces and they are general enough to be easily extended to any kind of structure without substantial modifications. Our results show the genetic algorithm can provide very good solutions, often surpassing other complex and specialized techniques