Finite element model updating using crow search algorithm with Levy flight

The accuracy of the finite element model is essential for fatigue analysis and vibration of a flexible body. This paper presents a finite element model updating (FEMU) algorithm based on crows search algorithm incorporated with Levy flight (LFCSA). The proposed algorithm is tested on the updating of two different cases: a simple structure (beam) and a complex structure (gearbox housing). To verify the performance of LFCSA, two optimization algorithm, which is the standard CSA and the particle swarm optimization algorithm with Levy flight (LFPSO), are applied to FEMU of the simple beam. The result of the comparison shows that the LFCSA has sufficient convergence speed and global search ability in the implementation of FEMU. In the case of gearbox housing, the error of frequencies and mode shapes are analyzed to indicate that the LFCSA gives a satisfactory result in a complex structure.