Reliability Based Optimization with Metaheuristic Algorithms and Latin Hypercube Sampling Based Surrogate Models

Reliability based optimization (RBO) is one of the most appropriate methods for structural design under uncertainties. It searches for the best compromise between cost and safety while considering system uncertainties by incorporating reliability measures within the optimization. Despite the advantages of RBO, its application to practical engineering problem is still quite challenging. In this paper, we propose an effective method to decouple the loops of reliability assessment analysis and optimization by creating surrogate models. The Latin Hypercube sampling approach is applied to a structural finite element model to obtain an effective database for building surrogate models. In order to avoid premature convergence of the optimization process, the RBO problem is solved with metaheuristic methods such as genetic algorithm and simulated annealing. The relative efficiency of surrogate models and their relationship with metaheuristic search engine are discussed in the article.