Computer aided analysis and optimal design of mechanical systems using vector-network techniques

Abstract

Stringent tolerances on mechanical components has created increasingly severe demands on the quality of new mechanical designs. The mathematical models used to simulate the various types of mechanical systems these days need to incorporate an optimization algorithm capable of predicting and improving the efficiency of an initial design. Hence, this article presents an extension of the vector-network model for the computer aided simulation and design optimization of dynamic systems. The method is based on a simplistic topological approach which is incorporated into an efficient numerical optimization process used to solve non-linear problems. The procedure casts, simultaneously, the three-dimensional equations of motion and the objective function into a symmetrical format, always yielding an optimum solution. The algorithm serves as a basis for a “self-formulating” computer program which simulates the best system response, given only the system description as input. The effectiveness of this approach is demonstrated in the analysis of a 3-D eight DOF vehicle model. In this example, allowable values for design parameters and suspension types are incorporated in order to minimize the performance variables which are beneficial for comfort without unduly compromising road holding capabilities.