Development of a Software for the Optimization of Mechanical Structural Elements

Authors

Joshua Gross, South Dakota State UniversityFollow

Files

Description

The goal of this software is to develop the framework for the optimal design of a mechanical structural element that minimizes the total part volume while maintaining the induced stress below an acceptable level. The software starts with input from the user, which is a set of ANSYS APDL commands that include constant dimensions, applied force, and initial values for the variable dimensions. Then, a MATLAB script modifies the variable dimensions, and the output is analyzed by the nonlinear programming solver known as Sequential Gradient-Restoration Algorithm. Finally, the solver converges on the dimensions that produce a structurally viable element with the minimum volume, which should correspond to the lightest weight. This paper outlines this process in greater detail and shows experimental results and final geometry from a competed run of the software.

Publication Date

5-2021

Publisher

South Dakota State University

Disciplines

Mechanical Engineering

Recommended Citation

Gross, Joshua, "Development of a Software for the Optimization of Mechanical Structural Elements" (2021). Honors Capstone Projects. 3.
https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/honors_isp/3