Multi-Goal Driven Optimization of the Beam in Straight-Side Two-Point Press

Abstract

Traditionally, the beams of mechanical presses are designed and optimized empirically. The empirical design cannot satisfy the increasingly strict requirements on product performance, quality, cost and appearance. This paper attempts to develop a lightweight design for the beam of a straight-side two-point press without sacrificing the strength and stiffness of the structure, thus saving materials and production cost. Our design was mainly developed through multi-goal-driven optimization (multi-GDO) based on ANSYS Workbench. Firstly, the finite-element model of the target beam was established with the aid of ANSYS Workbench and SolidWorks, followed by the static structural analysis on the beam structure. Next, the main dimensional parameters of the beam were subjected to sensitivity analysis, revealing the key factors affecting the beam dimensions. Finally, the multi-objective genetic algorithm (MOGA) was called to optimize the main design variables, and finalize the lightweight design of the beam. The lightweight design was found to greatly save the material and production cost. The research results lay the theoretical basis for beam improvement, and provide a reference for the optimization of other parts of mechanical press and other molding and forging machines.