Design optimization of leaf springs using genetic algorithms

摘要

This paper presents a formulation and solution technique using genetic algorithms (GAs) for design optimisation of leaf springs. Suspension system in an automobile determines the riding comfort to passengers and the amount of damage to the cargoinside the automobile. Leaf springs used in the suspension systems are subjected to millions of load/stress cycles leading to fatigue failure. The lower the unsprung moss, the lower is the fatigue stress induced. Leaf spring accounts for 10 percent to 20percent of unsprung weight. It is anticipated that its weight reduction will lead to improvements in riding qualities. In this context, design optimization of leaf springs will be a contribution in the process of leaf spring design for existing materialas well as for alternative material that may be used in future. Different methods are in use for design optimization most of which use mathematical programming techniques. This paper presents an artificial genetics approach for design optimization of leaf spring problems. Genetic algorithms efficiently exploit useful information contained in a population of solutions to generate new solutions with better performance. By making use of genetic algorithm, the optimum dimensions of the leaf spring has beenfound out which has minimum weight with adequate strength and stiffness.