A. Asaad Samani, S. R. Hoseini Vaez, P. Hosseini,
Volume 15, Issue 3 (8-2025)
Abstract
This study addresses the critical necessity for optimized structural design under fire conditions, where conventional methods often prove inadequate. The research focuses on the optimal design of two three and nine story steel moment-resisting frames, without fireproofing protection. The optimization objectives were to minimize the structural weight while satisfying constraints under critical fire scenarios. The key design constraints included inter-story drift and the demand-to-capacity ratio of structural members. The study employed the Enhanced Vibrating Particles System (EVPS) and the Accelerated Water Evaporation Optimization (AWEO) algorithms. A significant aspect of the investigation involved analyzing various severe fire scenarios to identify which parts of the structures are most vulnerable during a fire event. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed optimization framework in achieving a lightweight yet resilient structural design that meets regulations under extreme thermal loading.
Mr R. Sepehri, Dr H. Azizian, Dr R. Sojoudizadeh, Dr S. Salehian,
Volume 16, Issue 3 (7-2026)
Abstract
The dual steel system comprising moment-resisting frames integrated with steel shear walls represents an advanced seismic-resistant solution in structural engineering. This system synergistically combines the high ductility and energy dissipation capacity of steel frames with the substantial lateral stiffness and strength provided by steel shear walls. Proper design of such systems requires precise determination of the optimal location, thickness, and mechanical properties of the shear walls parameters that critically govern seismic performance, structural safety, material efficiency, and construction cost. To achieve an optimal balance between performance and economy, the problem is formulated as a constrained optimization task. This study employs the recently developed Puma Optimizer (PO) and introduces a novel enhanced variant, termed the Upgraded Puma Optimizer (U-PO). The key novelty of this work lies in the integration of Lévy flight distribution into the PO framework, replacing conventional Brownian motion to significantly strengthen the exploration–exploitation balance, global search capability, and convergence speed. This modification enables more effective handling of complex, high-dimensional structural optimization problems. The performance of the proposed U-PO is rigorously evaluated through the optimal design of three benchmark steel frames (1-, 10-, and 20-story) equipped with shear walls. The primary objective is to minimize the total structural weight while satisfying strength, serviceability, and seismic design requirements according to relevant building codes. Decision variables include frame member cross-sections as well as the location and thickness of shear walls. Comparative results against several established metaheuristic algorithms (HHO, AOA, and GWO) demonstrate the superiority of the U-PO, confirming that the incorporation of Lévy flights leads to markedly improved convergence behavior and solution quality. The U-PO consistently yields superior designs featuring notable reductions in structural weight through more efficient sizing and strategic placement of steel shear walls.
