The effectiveness of metaheuristic algorithms modified with Fitness Distance Balance (FDB) method on RC slab bridge superstructure optimization

• Published in: Iranian journal of science and technology. Transactions of civil engineering Vol. 48; no. 6; pp. 4423 - 4442
• Main Author: ÖZTÜRK, Hasan Tahsin
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Cham Springer International Publishing 2024; Springer Nature B.V
• Subjects: Algorithms; Bridge design; Civil Engineering; Concrete slabs; Effectiveness; Engineering; Heuristic methods; Minimum cost; Optimization; Reinforced concrete; Research Paper; Stability analysis; Statistical analysis; Statistical tests; Success; Superstructures; Metaheuristics; Optimization. FDB method; Slab bridge
• ISSN: 2228-6160; 2364-1843
• DOI: 10.1007/s40996-024-01488-5

In this study, optimum designs of single-span reinforced concrete slab bridge superstructures with minimum cost, considering the AASHTO-LRFD Bridge Regulation, were carried out with the AEO, AGDE, ChOA, LFD, RUN, PPSO, SDO, SFS, SMA, SOS, and TLABC algorithms and their FDB method applied versions. A problem suite consisting of six different bridge designs was developed. A two-stage study was carried out on the problem suite. In the first stage, optimal solutions were determined for each of the designs in the suite. According to the success of the algorithms in reaching the optimal solution, the algorithms were compared with statistical tests, and the algorithms were ranked. The effect of the FDB method on the metaheuristic algorithms was examined. It was understood that the FDB method was effective in enhancing the success of low-success algorithms. In the second stage, algorithms with high success rates were selected as competitive algorithms. Feasible solutions were determined according to the average solutions of competitive algorithms. The stabilities and computational durations of competitive algorithms were determined by means of the stability analysis. The results showed that the FDB AGDE (Cases 1 and 3) and AGDE algorithms were the most stable algorithms, and the FDB AGDE (Case 1) algorithm had the highest speed in most designs.