Multi-objective optimization of the geometry of the elastic element of a wind tunnel balance

The work is devoted to the development of technology of computer-aided design of elastic elements of wind tunnel balances, used in the testing of scale models of prospective aircrafts in wind tunnels. Modern technologies of automated design are based on the application of methods of parametric and topological optimization of structures, as well as the use of finite element analysis of stress-strain state of structures. These computational methods are implemented in software packages for engineering analysis and design (CAD/CAE systems). The problem of optimization of elastic elements of multi-component load cells is formulated. The main aspects of application of parametric and topological optimization methods in relation to elastic element design are considered. The practical application of topological optimization methods is limited by the high complexity of the resulting geometry. There is a problem of interpretation of the problem solution results. At the same time, the elastic element geometry is determined primarily by technological constrains associated with used manufacturing technologies. It is shown that the introduction of technological constraints in the formulation of the topological optimization problem allows to obtain geometry that is suitable for practical application. An algorithm for solving the problem of optimization with technological constraints has been developed, based on the correlation analysis of two geometrical models, performed using mutual correlation functions, showing the degree of difference or similarity of these models. The algorithm is based on a combination of parametric and topological optimization methods, so it can be attributed to parametric-topological optimization methods. The proposed algorithm has been tested. It is shown that the results of algorithm using are adequate, can be easily interpreted and suitable for practical use.