Bionic Optimization in Structural Design

The book provides suggestions on how to start using bionic optimization methods, including pseudo-code examples of each of the important approaches and outlines of how to improve them. The most efficient methods for accelerating the studies are also discussed. These include the selection of size and generations of studies, modification of driving parameters, switching to gradient methods when approaching a local maximum and the use of parallel working hardware.§§A set of sample applications shows how Bionic Optimization works in practice. From academic studies on simple frames made of rods to metal forming processes, readers are shown the lessons learned, difficulties encountered and effective strategies for overcoming them. So e.g. for the problem of tuned mass dampers, which play an important role in dynamic control, changing the goal and restrictions paves the way for Multi-Objective-Optimization. As most structural designers now use commercial software like FE-Codes or CAE systems with integrated simulation modules, ways of integrating Bionic Optimization into these software packages are outlined and a number of typical systems and typical optimization approaches are presented.§§The book s closing section focuses on an outlook on reliable and robust as well as on Multi-Objective-Optimization, including discussions of current and upcoming research topics in the field concerning a unified theory for handling stochastic design processes.§