Optimization design and parametric research of belt conveyor deck truss structure

A belt conveyor deck truss (truss for short) is an important component of a belt conveyor, which has the functions of bearing and supporting. In this paper, a meta-heuristic optimization algorithm was employed to replace traditional finite element optimization to achieve a lightweight design and avoid the high consumables and low-efficiency problems due to conservative design. Therefore, it was proven that the applicability and stability of this algorithm were better than other algorithms. Then, the response surface and sensitivity analyses were carried out to directly show the relationship between the design variable and the objective function. Finally, the optimized truss rods profiles were saved in the database, and the classes in the Application Programming Interface (API) provided by Tekla Structures were instantiated to achieve the parametric modeling and drawing of the truss. The results showed that the optimization efficiency was greatly improved through the Harris hawks optimization method, and the mass of the optimized truss was reduced by 19.21%. The efficiency of the truss modeling and drawing, the flexibility of design were improved through the parametric design combined with Tekla Structures. This study provided practical guidance for parametric research and lightweight truss design, which possessed promising engineering application value.