Topology optimization scheme for dynamic stiffness problems using harmony search method

Abstract

This paper suggests a new topology optimization scheme for natural frequency problems based on the harmony search (HS) method. The HS method is expected to be very effective since its topology optimization procedure is similar to the procedure for tuning the instruments found in an orchestra. To apply the HS method to dynamic topology optimization, an objective function is defined as a natural frequency, and the design domain is defined as harmony memory (HM) in the HS method. The harmony rate update rule is introduced to obtain a robust topology. Through a parametric study of the harmony memory considering rate (HMCR), pitch adjusting rate (PAR), and bandwidth (BW), the proper ranges of the search variables are determined and applied to numerical examples. Some examples are provided to examine the effectiveness of the HS method compared to the artificial bee colony algorithm (ABCA) in dynamic topology optimization. Properly selected parameters for the suggested algorithm with the harmony rate update rule provide a robust topology, a fast convergence rate and a stable optimization process. It can be effectively expanded to apply to shape and topological shape optimization algorithms.