Improved harmony search algorithms for sizing optimization of truss structures

Harmony search (HS) algorithm was conceptualized using an analogy with music improvisation process where music players improvise the pitches of their instruments to obtain better harmony. Although the efficiency of HS algorithm has been proved in different engineering optimization applications, it is known that HS algorithm is quite sensitive to the tuning parameters. Several variants of HS algorithm have been developed to decrease the parameter-dependency character of HS algorithm. In this study, two improved harmony search algorithms called efficient harmony search algorithm (EHS) and self adaptive harmony search algorithm (SAHS) are proposed for sizing optimization of truss structures. Four classical truss structure weight minimization problems are presented to demonstrate the robustness of the proposed algorithms. The results of the present algorithms are compared with those of HS algorithm and other meta-heuristic algorithms recently developed in literature.

► SAHS is better than EHS.
► The variation of PAR is examined.
► Decreasing of PAR increases the quality of the solutions.
► The number of structural analyses depends on internal parameters.