Title: Configuration and sizing design optimisation of powertrain mounting systems

Authors: Seonho Cho

Addresses: CIMS 514-18-79, DaimlerChrysler Corporation, Plymouth Road Office Complex, 14250 Plymouth Road, Detroit, MI 48227, USA

Abstract: A configuration and sizing design optimisation problem for powertrain mounting systems is formulated. The objective function is to decouple and maximise the component modal kinetic energy of the powertrain subsystem. Natural frequencies and collinear roll vector condition are used as the constraints. Cartesian coordinates and spring rates of the mounts are selected as the design parameters. An automated design optimisation procedure is developed using an optimisation code based on the method of feasible direction (MFD) and MSC/NASTRAN as a finite clement solver. The necessary gradient information is obtained using the central finite difference method. For the obtained optimum model, forced response analyses are performed in engine idling and wheel unbalancing conditions to show that overall accelerations are greatly reduced at the response positions.

Keywords: configuration and sizing design optimisation; finite difference sensitivity; forced response analysis; method of feasible direction; modal kinetic energy; normal mode analysis; powertrain subsystem.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVD.2000.001872

International Journal of Vehicle Design, 2000 Vol.24 No.1, pp.34-47

Published online: 18 Aug 2003 *

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