Improved PSO algorithm for shape and sizing optimization of truss structure

In order to overcome the premature convergence defect of the basic particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm and provide an effective method for shape and sizing optimization of truss structure, an improved PSO was proposed. The random direction method was employed to produce high-quality initial population, the fuzzy system was applied in the dynamic adaptive adjustment of parameters of the PSO, and the Metropolis criteria were used to improve the performance of PSO. Then, the improved PSO was introduced to the truss structure shape and sizing optimization design. Engineering practice and comparison with the other optimization algorithms show that the algorithm has good convergence and global searching capability. The study provides a promising algorithm for the structural optimization.