In this paper the recently developed nature inspired metaheuristic algorithm is utilized for optimum design of truss structures with continuous and discrete variables. This algorithm is inspired by the natural process happening in the forests with the rapidly change of environment and their natural regeneration. Based on this process a simple powerful optimization technique is introduced so-called Natural Forest Regeneration (NFR). Some well-studied benchmark structural problems are

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... with both continuous and discrete sizing variables and the results of the NRF are compared to those of some previously developed algorithms. Keywords truss optimum design · continuous variables · discrete variables · natural forest regeneration method · meta-heuristic algorithm · nature-inspired optimization Natural Forest Regeneration Algorithm for Optimum Design of Truss Structures 257 2016 60 2 M i = (rand × 2 − 1) dr 2 Period. Polytech. Civil Eng.