Abstract
An improved method for updating simplified finite element models using a genetic algorithm has been developed. Once updated, the simplified model can be used to study, redesign, and optimize complex mechanical systems in terms of their dynamic behavior. In comparison with other procedures, the updating method based on genetic algorithms has the significant advantage of allowing a better control on the model during the updating process. In this work, a new kind of objective function is presented, that further enhances the characteristics of the updating process. The method was validated by derivation of a simplified model of an automotive subframe.