An improved fireworks algorithm for discrete sizing optimization of steel skeletal structures

The fireworks algorithm (FWA), a newly introduced metaheuristic algorithm, has exhibited remarkable performance in a variety of optimization problems. However, FWA still has some shortcomings that need to be addressed. In the present study, an improved fireworks algorithm (IFWA) is proposed to mitigate the drawbacks of the original algorithm. In the IFWA, the possibility of interaction among different solutions during the optimization process is provided. Moreover, a strategy is considered to decrease the computational effort of the algorithm. The IFWA is used to deal with the discrete structural optimization problems of steel trusses and frames. The results demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed IFWA compared with other well-known metaheuristics in the literature, in terms of the optimum solutions and the convergence rate.