Simulated squirrel search algorithm: A hybrid metaheuristic method and its application to steel space truss optimization

One of the biggest problems in structural steel calculation is the design of structures using the lowest possible material weight, making this a slow and costly process. To achieve this objective, several optimization methods have been developed and tested. Nevertheless, a method that performs very efficiently when applied to different problems is not yet available. Based on this assumption, this work proposes a hybrid metaheuristic algorithm for geometric and dimensional optimization of space trusses, called Simulated Squirrel Search Algorithm, which consists of an association of the wellestablished neighborhood shifting algorithm (Simulated Annealing) with a recently developed promising population algorithm (Squirrel Search Algorithm, or SSA). In this study, two models are tried, being respectively, a classical model from the literature (25-bar space truss) and a roof system composed of space trusses. The structures are subjected to resistance and displacement constraints. A penalty function using Fuzzy Logic (FL) is investigated. Comparative analyses are performed between the Squirrel Search Algorithm (SSSA) and other optimization methods present in the literature. The results obtained indicate that the proposed method can be competitive with other heuristics.