Title: Structural optimization in the industrial design process

Authors: J.A. Bennett

Addresses: Engineering Mechanics Department, General Motors Research Laboratories, Warren, Michigan 48090, USA

Abstract: In the aerospace industry, there are very few examples of the use of mathematical optimization at an early stage in the design process, such that a significant contribution is made by these techniques before the structure of the vehicle has been almost fully developed. General Motors Research Laboratories have been engaged over the past ten years in the development and application of optimization techniques, but with the major aim of improving the design process. This paper focuses specifically on structural optimization. A number of examples of which are proven. It is shown that significant gains can be made if analysis takes place before bad design decisions are made.

Keywords: computer programs; design environment; design process; finite element method; FEM; integration; optimal design; structural optimisation; vehicle design.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVD.1984.061092

International Journal of Vehicle Design, 1984 Vol.5 No.1/2, pp.115 - 128

Published online: 25 May 2014 *

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