Connection topology optimization of steel moment frames using metaheuristic algorithms

This paper details the optimization of steel moment frames in which, in addition to the beam and column sections, the beam-to-column connection type is also variable. In these connection topology optimizations, the optimal trade-off between the lateral stiffness provided by moment connections and lower cost of pin connections is determined by identifying the most efficient arrangement of moment connections. Four metaheuristic algorithms are used to optimize two different frames and their performance is compared. Results indicate that the cost of a frame is minimized when moment connections are arranged in a manner that resembles a global structural system.