Improved Harmony Search Algorithm for Solving Optimization Problem with Mixed Discrete Variables

Abstract:

The classical harmony search algorithm (HSA) can only be used to solve the unconstrained optimization problems with continuous decision variables. Therefore, the classical HSA is not suitable for solving an engineering optimization problem with mixed discrete variables. In order to improve the classical HSA, an engineering method for dealing with mixed discrete decision variables is introduced and an exact non-differentiable penalty function is used to transform the constrained optimization design model into an unconstrained mathematical model. Based on above improvements, a program of improved HSA is designed and it can be used for solving the constrained optimization design problems with continuous variables, integer variables and non-equidistant discrete variables. Finally, an optimization design example of single-stage cylindrical-gear reducer with mixed-discrete variables is given. The example shows that the designed program runs steadily and the proposed method is effective in engineering design.

• Periodical: Applied Mechanics and Materials (Volumes 325-326)
• Pages: 1485-1488
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMM.325-326.1485
• Online since: June 2013
• Authors: Shi Ming Hao, Li Zhi Cheng
• Keywords: Gear Reducer, Harmony Search Algorithm, Mixed Discrete Variables, Optimization Design

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