Optimization of structural design with pendulum dynamic vibration absorber using genetic algorithm

In this study, a genetic algorithm is introduced to determine optimal locations of pendulum dynamic vibration absorbers (PDVAs) in vibrating structures. A PDVA is composed of a pendulum system and spring-mass system, and aims to attenuate structural vibrations at two resonance frequencies, that is, the square root of stiffness over mass and square root of a length over gravity of the hosting structure. An optimization method involving nonlinear transient finite element analysis was applied to increase the engineering efficiency of PDVAs. With the incorporation of a genetic algorithm, the optimal locations of PDVAs in various structures can be determined and vibrations at the desired resonant frequencies can be attenuated. In addition, the Voronoi diagram concept is applied to realize a uniform distribution of PDVAs in vibrating structures. Several optimization examples were solved using the proposed genetic algorithm and demonstrated decreases in frequency responses by up to 98.6549%, showing the effectiveness of PDVAs in suppressing structural vibrations.