TRUSS STRUCTURE OPTIMIZATION USING PARTICLE SWARM OPTIMIZATION WITH DIRECT FEM COUPLING

This paper presents a methodology for the mass optimization of truss structures using Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) coupled with Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis. The approach allows for the modification of nodal coordinates while maintaining structural integrity under specified loading conditions. The results indicate that the PSO algorithm effectively navigates the design space to identify optimal node positions that minimize structural mass while maintaining performance requirements. This methodology offers a promising approach for structural design in engineering applications where displacement reduction is critical.