Design cost minimization of a reinforced concrete column section using overnew swarm-based optimization algorithms

Abstract It is very tiresome for a practiser to detect the best feasible sizing design of structural members including reinforced concrete columns that is a highly nonlinear and complicated structural engineering optimization problem. This is due to such a design is practically conducted via conventional trial-and-error computing methods in which resistance to external loads, cost efficiency, and aesthetic factors, etc. have to be considered. This study focuses on minimizing the design cost of primarily proposed reinforced concrete column design problem via three overnew swarm-based optimizers such as Coati Optimization Algorithm, Fox Optimizer and Pelican Optimization Algorithm (POA) that are firstly utilized for this purpose. In this regard, the type of steel rebar distribution, the characteristic strength of the concrete, the height and width of the column section, and the number and diameter of the rebars are treated as discrete design variables of the newly proposed complex reinforced concrete column design cost optimization problem. In solution, the design requirements specified in practice code provisions should also be met. Here, Turkish Building Earthquake Code 2018 specifications are considered as practice structural design constraints. Consequently, the algorithmic performances of three overnew swarm-based metaheuristic optimization algorithms are compared and evaluated in detail. Amongst them, the POA shows most fruitful algorithmic design solution performance.