Structural optimisation with reliability-based durability constraints Online publication date: Mon, 18-Aug-2003
by Sung-Ling Twu, Maolin Tsai, Ramaswamy Subramanian, Robert V. Lust, M.E.M. El-Sayed
International Journal of Vehicle Design (IJVD), Vol. 25, No. 1/2, 2001
Abstract: This paper describes a reliability-based design optimisation methodology for structural durability that directly considers expected variations in service loads, material characteristics and finite element analysis modelling. The methodology is based on the development of a stochastic durability limit state model. For a given field reliability target, this model can be easily evaluated for known (or assumed) variations; yielding an equivalent deterministic limiting stress. This limiting stress is then used as input (in the form of a durability stress constraint) to an existing structural design optimisation tool which, in turn, is used to generate a mass efficient structural design. Because the variations considered are completely comprehended by the stress constraint, the reliability analysis and the structural optimisation procedure are uncoupled. Therefore, the methodology is computationally efficient. As a demonstration, the new methodology is used to design a typical automobile shock tower interface structure.
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