Global Simultaneous Optimization of Oil, Hysteretic and Inertial Dampers Using Real-Valued Genetic Algorithm and Local Search

Abstract

A method for global simultaneous optimization of oil, hysteretic and inertial dampers is proposed for building structures using a real-valued genetic algorithm and local search. Oil dampers has the property that they can reduce both displacement and acceleration without significant change of natural frequencies and hysteretic dampers possess the characteristic that they can absorb energy efficiently and reduce displacement effectively in compensation for the increase of acceleration. On the other hand, inertial dampers can change (prolong) the natural periods with negative stiffness and reduce the effective input and the maximum acceleration in compensation for the increase of deformation. By using the proposed simultaneous optimization method, structural designers can select the best choice of these three dampers from the viewpoints of cost and performance indices (displacement, acceleration). For attaining the global optimal solution which cannot be attained by the conventional sensitivity-based approach, a method including a real-valued genetic algorithm and local search is devised. In the first stage, a real-valued genetic algorithm is used for searching an approximate global optimal solution. Then a local search procedure is activated for enhancing the optimal character of the solutions by reducing the total quantity of three types of dampers. It is demonstrated that a better design from the viewpoint of global optimality can be obtained by the proposed method and the preference of damper selection strongly depends on the design target (displacement, acceleration). Finally, a multi-objective optimization for the minimum deformation and acceleration is investigated.