The genetic algorithm, a search and optimization technique based on the theory of natural selection, is applied to problems of structural topology design. An overview of the genetic algorithm will first describe the genetics-based representations and operators used in a typical genetic algorithm search. Then, a review of previous research in structural optimization is provided. A discretized design representation, and methods for mapping genetic algorithm “chromosomes” into this representation, is then detailed. Several examples of genetic algorithm-based structural topology optimization are provided: we address the optimization of cantilevered plate topologies, and we investigate methods for optimizing finely-discretized design domains. The genetic algorithm’s ability to find families of highly-fit designs is also examined. Finally, a description of potential future work in genetic algorithm-based structural topology optimization is offered.
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December 1994
Research Papers
Genetic Algorithms as an Approach to Configuration and Topology Design
C. D. Chapman,
C. D. Chapman
Computer-Aided Design Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
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K. Saitou,
K. Saitou
Computer-Aided Design Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
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M. J. Jakiela
M. J. Jakiela
Computer-Aided Design Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
Search for other works by this author on:
C. D. Chapman
Computer-Aided Design Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
K. Saitou
Computer-Aided Design Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
M. J. Jakiela
Computer-Aided Design Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
J. Mech. Des. Dec 1994, 116(4): 1005-1012 (8 pages)
Published Online: December 1, 1994
Article history
Received:
June 1, 1993
Revised:
December 1, 1993
Online:
June 2, 2008
Citation
Chapman, C. D., Saitou, K., and Jakiela, M. J. (December 1, 1994). "Genetic Algorithms as an Approach to Configuration and Topology Design." ASME. J. Mech. Des. December 1994; 116(4): 1005–1012. https://doi.org/10.1115/1.2919480
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