Robust Optimization Design of Metro Handrails

Abstract

This paper presents the robust design and response surface method (RSM) based on finite element analysis for the optimization design of metro handrails. The response surface can be created for each output parameter. Sequential quadratic programming is used for the optimization of metro handrails. Taguchi design is employed to investigate the sensitive controlling factors for the strength and mass of metro handrails, by taking the material density, the column and cross bar thickness as controlling factors, and the acceleration, the elastic modulus and the fluctuation of material density as uncontrollable factors. Then, the best combination of controlling factors is found. The results by different methods show that the method of Taguchi design can improve the robustness of the structural performance and reduce the mass.