Robust parameter design and economical multi-objective optimization on characterizing rubber for shoe soles

Abstract

Within Taguchi methods, robust parameter design is a widely used tool for quality improvement in processes and products. The loss function is another quality improvement technique with a focus on cost reduction. Traditional Taguchi methods focus on process improvement or optimization with a unique quality characteristic. Analytical approaches for optimizing processes with multiple quality characteristics have been presented in the literature. In this investigation, a case of analysis for two quality characteristics in rubber for shoe sole is presented. A methodology supported in robust parameter design in combined array is used in order to obtain optimal levels in the vulcanization process. Optimization techniques based on the loss function and the use of restricted nonlinear optimization with genetic algorithms are proposed.