I-DEAS Optimization module 1

[toothroot]

Hi everybody,

I am a student of Mecanical Engineering. Currently, I'm working on my final year thesis. For the structural analysis of a part, I'm deploying the Optimzation module of I-DEAS 8. As I have to write a report about my work, I'd like to know, what the Optimzation module of I-DEAS actually does, i.e. what algorithms/optimizations methods are utilised to find an optimized set of optimization parameters. I'm especially interested in the "perturbation analysis" performed at every optimization iteration just before the matrix solve. I know that I-DEAS uses some kind of gradient method to converge to an optimum, but I haven't a clue what the perturbation algorithms does.
Being an engineering student, I'm more interested in some general information, not too mathematical (which I wouldn't probably understand).

Thanks in advance,
Daniel

 

[Goska]

I can't help you with your question, but I came here to find out about how to start using the optimization module. I've been doing FEA for awhile, and deicded to start using the optimization package. I am also a ME student.

For the current project, I am trying to optimize a plate with some holes and curves. I am using tetra10 elements. The problem I am having with getting started is setting the design parameters. The menus will no let me select any of the elements. I have tried selecting them with an existing solution set and without. Do you have any suggestions on things that I might need to do first?

Thank you

 

[toothroot]

Hi Goska,

it's not quite clear to me what kind of optimisation you would like to conduct. What kind of optimisation parameters do you want to use? Are they geometrical dimensions (e.g. the diameters of some of the holes in your plate) or wall thicknesses of plate elements?
As you say you're using tetra10 elements, I asume that you would like to optimise the part's geometry. If that is right, there are some points you have to pay attention to:

1. Make sure that you tick "Geometry based analysis only" when you generate your FE-model. Otherwise, the FE-mesh would'nt follow changes of the part geometry.

2. For the same reason, define any loadings and restraint on edges/surfaces/vertices rather than on nodes.

3. Go back to the Master Modeller, pick your part with the modify button and select "Show Dimension" to have all dimensions of the part shown on the screen.

4. Go to the optimisation module, create a design set (with "Mathematical Programming Redesign&quot and got to the design parameter button.

5. Click "Create". The type of design parameter should be "Geometrical". If not, something's wrong!!

6. Click "Select Geometry" and pick the dimension you want to make Design Parameter.

7. Fill in the rest, e.g. upper/lower limit, create a nice name etc.

8. Create limits and optimisation target as desired, run optimisation.

Please let me know if this was any help to your problem!!

Regards,
Daniel

 

[Goska]

This was exactly what I needed. Thanks.