Harmony Search Optimization and Damage Tolerance of Structural Systems

In this thesis, multiple structural systems are investigated by utilizing the Harmony Search optimization algorithm for least weight optimization. An analytical overview of structural optimization, matrix analysis, damage tolerance, steel connections and structural reliability analysis and methodology are presented. To support the methodology, three example problems have been provided. The first example demonstrates damage tolerant optimization of a simple truss structure. The second example focuses on the harmony search optimization of a more complex steel frame along with damage tolerant optimization. The third example provides a brief connection between damage tolerance and structural reliability. The findings show that the harmony search algorithm can be a powerful tool when optimizing structural systems. They also show the power of linking optimization, damage tolerance and structural reliability when considering the design of a structure.