Shape optimization of structures for frequency constraints by sequential harmony search algorithm

Shape optimization of structures with frequency constraints is a highly nonlinear dynamic optimization problem. In order to deal with this type of optimization problem, efficient optimization algorithms should be employed. The main objective of the present study is to propose an efficient harmony search (HS)-based algorithm for solving the shape optimization problem of pin-jointed structures subject to multiple natural frequency constraints. In the proposed algorithm an enhanced version of HS is employed in the framework of the sequential unconstrained minimization technique. The efficiency of the presented sequential harmony search (SHS) algorithm is illustrated through several benchmark optimization examples and the results are compared to those of different optimization techniques. The numerical results demonstrate the computational advantages of the SHS in shape optimization of structures for frequency constraints.