Application of the Nonlinear Conjugate Gradient (NCG) Method in Structural Optimization

Norrlaili Shapiee; Nur Idayu Ah Khaliludin; Nurul Hajar; Norhaslinda Zullpakkal

Authors

Norrlaili Shapiee Pusat Tamhidi, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) 71800 Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
Nur Idayu Ah Khaliludin Faculty of Industrial & Manufacturing Technology & Engineering (FTKIP), Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Hang Tuah Jaya, 76100 Durian Tunggal, Melaka, Malaysia
Nurul Hajar Mathematical Sciences Studies, College of Computing, Informatics and Mathematics, UiTM Terengganu Branch Kuala Terengganu Campus, 21080, Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia
Norhaslinda Zullpakkal Mathematical Sciences Studies, College of Computing, Informatics and Mathematics, UiTM Terengganu Branch Kuala Terengganu Campus, 21080, Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia

Keywords:

structural optimization, nonlinear conjugate gradient method, truss structures, numerical simulation

Abstract

Structural optimisation is essential for designing efficient and cost-effective engineering structures. This study investigates the application of the Nonlinear Conjugate Gradient (NCG) method to minimize the weight of truss structures while satisfying stress and displacement constraints. The NCG method iteratively updates design variables along conjugate search directions, tailored for solving nonlinear optimization problems. This research evaluates the method's performance in real-life scenarios through MATLAB numerical simulations, focusing on achieving substantial weight reductions while ensuring compliance with rigorous engineering criteria. The findings underscore the practical applicability of NCG in optimizing complex structural designs and suggest avenues for future research in hybrid optimization strategies.