An Optimality Criterion for the Structural Optimization of Machine Elements

Abstract

Methods of structural optimization have been studied and developed over the last three decades. An important aspect of structural optimization pertains to the condition under which the loads are applied. Most machine structures in operation are subject to loads varying as functions of time. In this paper, a novel approach is proposed to cope with loads whose magnitudes vary within given bounds and with variable directions. The underlying ideas are applied to the structural optimization of the roller-carrying disk of a novel class of cam-follower speed reduction devices termed Speed-o-Cam (SoC). Results obtained in this paper are compared with a current prototype and with an intermediate design in which the dimensions of the roller pins are optimized. Combined with the optimum dimension of the roller pins, our structural-optimization results lead to an improvement of almost twice the stiffness with a mass reduction of 40% of the original prototype.