Abstract
This paper presents an optimization of crankshaft mass using Design Assistance System (DASY) software. The target of this optimization was to modify crankshaft design in order to obtain minimal possible mass while keeping stresses at acceptable level. Main crankshaft dimensions were not changed to allow usage of optimized crankshaft in the engine where original crankshaft was used. In order to perform such optimization, a real crankshaft was measured and full detailed model of it was created. From this full model a simplified model was created to reduce computational time and make optimization possible. Optimization was performed on the simplified model and results were checked on the full model to confirm their validity. Finite element models were created and solved in ABAQUS software. Parametric models were changed using script written in Python language. Optimization process was done and supervised by DASY. DASY was used to define optimization parameters and targets, to automate model modification and solution, and to run the optimization process. A Pareto front was obtained as a results of this optimization. This front represents the best compromises between crankshaft mass and maximal stresses. This means that each solution represents a design with the smallest possible mass for some level of stresses. For different level of stresses there will be different minimal possible masses.
KEYWORDS – crankshaft, optimization, FEM, DASY, genetic algorithm