An Application of Body CAE Multi-Attribute Optimization Based on Metamodelbased Optimization Method

Body structure design needs to meet multi-attributes requirements such as global bend stiffness/modal, torsion stiffness/modal, Noise and velocity transfer functions (NTF/VTF), and others. Computer-aided engineering (CAE) is a significant way to enhance the accuracy of design results. However, it also brings computation burden for optimization. In order to improve the performance and reduce the weight of automobile body structure, this paper presents a novel process of body CAE multi-attributes optimization. Four significant phases are described: 1) Sensitivity analysis for each body CAE performance, 2) MDO process, 3) Non-sensitive gauges reducing, and 4) Slightly optimization. Considering the mixed variables in the MDO process including continuous geometry shapes and discrete gauges, the developed continuous relaxation method was employed to deal with such situation. A real application of BIW design was implemented to illustrate the efficiency and contribution of such proposed optimization process. The attributes considered during optimization include global bend and torsion modal/stiffness. The MDO and non-sensitive gauge reducing processes are implemented to lead to a significant weight saving over 7.5 kg.