Free parameter search of multiple tuned mass dampers by using artificial bee colony algorithm

In optimization of multiple tuned mass dampers (MTMDs), certain restric-tions or preconditions such as uniform distribution of stiffness, mass, or fre-quency spacing had been applied for simplification, but in turn, solution ofindividual stiffness and damping parameters are not the true optima. Themain purpose of this paper is to obtain the true optima of individual stiffnessand damping parameters of MTMD system. In the proposed method, param-eters of TMD units are treated as free search optimization variables, and anefficient optimization algorithm, namely, artificial bee colony algorithm hasbeen utilized in obtaining optimum parameters of MTMDs. Performance pro-posed method with respect to uncontrolled structure is verified throughnumerical analyses and compared with other reported methods. Comparisonsshow a superior performance of proposed approach. The basic properties ofoptimum design, the effectiveness, and robustness with respect to numberof dampers are also discussed.