Optimal topology/actuator placement design of structures using SA

Integrated optimization of an adaptive structural topology and actuator locations are considered in this paper. The problem is formulated as mixed discrete-continuous multiobjective programming with a linear quadratic regulator cost index as objective. A guided random search method, namely simulated annealing, is adopted for problem-solving. A member elimination strategy that allows deleted members to be recovered is suggested in the search procedure. A 90-bar truss with four actuators is solved as verification for the proposed method. Different optimization schemes, including a hybrid method where the sequential linear programming is used to deal with the continuous structural design variable and the simulated annealing for optimal actuator placement, are discussed to demonstrate the advantage of the present algorithm. Numerical results show that the present method is superior to other schemes in searching for a much better local optima, although it cannot guarantee a global optima for such a complex problem.