Evolutionary algorithms and boundary element method in generalized shape optimization

The coupling of modern, alternative optimization methods such as evolutionary algorithms with the effective tool for analysis of mechanical structures – BEM, gives a new optimization method, which allows one to perform the generalized shape optimization (simultaneous shape and topology optimization) for elastic mechanical structures. This new evolutionary method is free from typical limitations connected with classical optimization methods. In the paper, results of researches on the application of evolutionary methods in the domain of mechanics are presented. Numerical examples for some optimization problems are presented, too.