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This paper focuses on the optimization of a linear actuator by the “output space mapping (OSM)” method. The underlying objective of this work lies in the minimization of the time required for the achievement of this optimal design. Indeed, in addition to the sole costs of optimization processes strictly speaking, the time needed for the developpement of the models is taken into account. In the context of OSM, two different finite-element models of the same actuator are used. This paper presents these modeling solutions and considers their corresponding accuracy. Results of this multi-objective optimization method are presented and compared with those obtained by the sequential simplex (SS) method based solely on the fine model. Both approaches give similar results. However, the comparison of their performances clearly shows that the OSM algorithm is an effective technique for reducing the computation time of optimization studies, even in the case of relatively simple electromagnetic structures. Hence, this approach leads to an original and effective optimization methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper describes a new numerical method for the design of multi-step stamping tools, in which the optimization approach is based on the Response Surface Method (RSM) with Kriging interpolation as well as the Sequential Quadratic Programming (SQP) algorithm. The present work attempts to provide a reliable methodology for the optimum design of the forming tools in order to produce a desired part by multi-step stamping within a severe tolerance (0.1mm). The numerical method has been proposed to reduce the number of forming steps and therefore increasing the process productivity. To reach this goal, an integrated optimization approach, using the commercial finite element code ABAQUS© together with an optimization algorithm was developed. The optimization algorithm consists in constructing an explicit form of the objective function according to the design variables. To search the global optimum of the objective function, the SQP algorithm has been used. A thin metallic part formed by manual press and without blank-holder has been considered, to demonstrate the effectiveness of the optimization approach to get the optimal tools shape in a few iterations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]