Discrete sizing/layout/topology optimization of truss structures with an advanced Jaya algorithm

Abstract Discrete optimization of truss structures is a hard computing problem with many local minima. Metaheuristic algorithms are naturally suited for discrete optimization problems as they do not require gradient information. A recently developed method called Jaya algorithm (JA) has proven itself very efficient in continuous engineering problems. Remarkably, JA has a very simple formulation and does not utilize algorithm-specific parameters. This study presents a novel JA formulation for discrete optimization of truss structures under stress and displacement constraints. The new algorithm, denoted as discrete advanced JA (DAJA), implements efficient search mechanisms for generating new trial designs including discrete sizing, layout and topology optimization variables. Besides the JA’s basic concept of moving towards the best design of the population and moving away from the worst design, DAJA tries to form a set of descent directions in the neighborhood of each candidate designs thus generating high quality trial designs that are very likely to improve current population. Results collected in seven benchmark problems clearly demonstrate the superiority of DAJA over other state-of-the-art metaheuristic algorithms and multi-stage continuous–discrete optimization formulations.