Second-order methods for the optimum synthesis of multibody systems

Citation
R. Aviles et al., Second-order methods for the optimum synthesis of multibody systems, ST MULT OPT, 19(3), 2000, pp. 192-203
Citations number
27
Categorie Soggetti
Mechanical Engineering
Journal title
STRUCTURAL AND MULTIDISCIPLINARY OPTIMIZATION
ISSN journal
1615147X → ACNP
Volume
19
Issue
3
Year of publication
2000
Pages
192 - 203
Database
ISI
SICI code
1615-147X(200005)19:3<192:SMFTOS>2.0.ZU;2-A
Abstract
The present paper takes a general approach to the dimensional synthesis of mechanisms via second-order optimization techniques. The error function is the same for any type of kinematic synthesis and is independent of the kine matic configuration of the mechanism. Mechanisms are modelled by means of r od-type finite elements, while the solution of syntheses is based on the ju dicious choice of constraints. The optimization parameters are the lengths of the rods making up the model. Two procedures are developed for minimizin g the error function, each of second-order. The first is based on using a p recise estimate of the first and second derivatives of the error function, while the second involves a rougher estimate based on the assumption that t he rods are uncoupled. By combining the two procedures in the iterative pro cess, and by adopting a variable convergence tolerance, one can synthesize mechanisms even when the initial dimensions are very different from those o f an acceptable solution.