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Abstract: An approach to a shape optimization of elastic dynamic multibody systems is presented. The proposed method combines an appropriate shape parameterization concept and recently introduced finite element type using absolute nodal coordinate formulation (ANCF). In ANCF, slopes and displacements are used as the nodal coordinates instead of infinitesimal or finite rotations. This way one avoids interpolation of rotational coordinates and problems with finite rotations. ANCF elements are able to describe nonlinear deformation accurately; therefore, this method is very useful for simulations of lightweight multibody structures, where large deformations have to be taken into account. The optimization problem is formulated as a nonlinear programming problem and a gradient-based optimization procedure is implemented. The introduced optimization design variables are related to the cross-sectional parameters of the element and to the shape of the whole structure. The shape parameterization is based on the design element techniqueand a rational B ezier body is used as a design element. A body-like design element makes possible to unify the shape optimization of both simple beams and beam-like (skeletal) structures.
Keywords: mechanics, dynamics of material systems, multibody systems, elastic mechanical systems, manipulators, dynamically loaded beams, optimum shape design, absolute nodal coordinate formulation, design element technique, finite element method
Published in DKUM: 31.05.2012; Views: 2227; Downloads: 122
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