Optimal Design of Planar Steel Frames Using the Hybrid Teaching–Learning and Charged System Search Algorithm

In this study, a novel effective algorithm called HTC which results from a hybridization process between the teaching–learning-based optimization (TLBO) and charged system search (CSS) algorithms is proposed and utilized to optimize planar steel frames. Among the features of the proposed algorithm, simplicity and low number of setting parameters can be mentioned. The main goals of this hybridization process are to establish a balance between exploration and exploitation, increase the rate of convergence, and avoid getting trapped in the local optimal point. Moreover, the purpose of optimizing steel frames is to calculate their minimum weight by choosing suitable sections as well as considering the stress and displacement constraints in accordance with the requirements of the AISC design regulations using the load and resistance factor design (LRFD) method. To evaluate the performance of the HTC algorithm, standard benchmark steel frames are examined, and the results of the proposed algorithm are compared with other metaheuristic optimization methods. According to the outcomes of the comparison, the proposed algorithm has better performance than the other methods.