An efficient adaptive-loop method for non-probabilistic reliability-based design optimization

For non-probabilistic reliability-based design optimization (NRBDO), existing methods cannot satisfy both efficiency and robustness requirements, especially for complex engineering problems. In this study, an efficient adaptive-loop (EAL) method for NRBDO is proposed based on an improved single loop method and enhanced chaos control method, aiming to enhance the optimization efficiency without sacrifice of numerical stability. The constraint function is reconstructed to improve the efficiency of reliability analysis. Moreover, a criteria condition is defined to guarantee the rationality of rough optimum and eliminate redundant constraints. The proposed EAL method can adaptively switch to a proper method, thus both high efficiency and robustness can be guaranteed. Nonlinear numerical examples and complex engineering problems are utilized to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method by comparison with other existing methods. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.