Abstract

This paper presents a method for synthesizing multicomponent beam structural assemblies with maximum structural performance and manufacturability. The problem is posed as a relaxation of decomposition-based assembly synthesis, where both topology and decomposition of a structure are regarded as variables over a ground structure with nonoverlapping beams. A multiobjective genetic algorithm with graph-based crossover, coupled with FEM analyses, is used to obtain Pareto optimal solutions to this problem, exhibiting trade-offs among structural stiffness, total weight, component manufacturability (size and simplicity), and the number of joints. Case studies with a cantilever and a simplified automotive floor frame are presented, and representative designs in the Pareto front are examined for the trade-offs among the multiple criteria.

Keywords:
beams (structures), design for manufacture, finite element analysis, genetic algorithms, Pareto optimisation, Design for Manufacturing, Assembly Synthesis, Structural Design, Genetic Algorithms, Topology Optimization
Topics:
Design, Genetic algorithms, Manufacturing, Stiffness, Topology, Topology optimization, Weight (Mass), Finite element model, Cantilevers, Springs

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 by American Society of Mechanical Engineers
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