Optimization of trusses using genetic algorithms for discrete and continuous variables

This paper demonstrates the use of genetic algorithms (GAs) for size optimi zation of trusses. The concept of rebirthing is shown to be considerably ef fective for problems involving continuous design variables. Some benchmark examples are studied involving 4-bar, 10-bar, 64-bar, 200-bar and 940-bar t wo-dimensional trusses. Both continuous and discrete variables are consider ed.