Enhanced metaheuristic evolution strategy for reliability based structural optimization of bridges

作     者：Lamouri, Hicham El Mkhalet, Mouna Lamdouar, Nouzha 

作者机构：Department of Civil Engineering Civil Engineering and Construction Laboratory Mohammadia School of Engineers Mohammed V University Rabat Morocco 

出 版 物：《Journal of Building Pathology and Rehabilitation》 (J. Build. Pathol. Rehabilit.)

年 卷 期：2025年第10卷第1期

页      面：1-13页

主　　题：Bridge engineering Evolution strategy Genetic algorithms Prestressed concrete structures Structural dynamics Structural optimization Structural reliability 

摘      要：Metaheuristic methods are optimization techniques designed to find good solutions for complex problems, especially when traditional methods are impractical. These algorithms provide general approaches that can be applied to a wide range of problems, aiming to find solutions in a reasonable amount of time while guaranteeing the best possible outcome. Among these, Evolutionary Algorithms, which include methods like Genetic Algorithms and Evolution Strategy, are particularly popular for their ability to handle optimization tasks and their bio-inspiration aspect. This paper proposes a methodology called Evolution Strategy based Reliability Optimization (ESRO), which integrates Evolution Strategy with reliability constraints defined by a probability of failure associated with the limit state function of the studied structure. The results obtained from the ESRO approach are compared with those from another methodology proposed by the authors, termed Reliability Genetic Algorithm Optimization (RGAO). Two case studies illustrate these methodologies: the first concerns the reliability optimization of a bridge pier subjected to seismic loading based on response spectrum analysis. The reliability optimization problem is formulated considering minimum design requirements, buckling limits, and stress constraints to determine the optimal dimensions for the structural configuration. The second case focuses on optimizing the height of a prestressed bridge deck slab while ensuring its reliability by adhering to prestressing geometrical conditions. This study enhances the understanding of metaheuristic techniques in structural reliability analysis and optimization, providing valuable insights for researchers and engineers in the field. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025.