Strength design of a knuckle component using moving least-squares response-surface-based approximate optimization methods

The paper deals with the strength design of an automotive knuckle component under bump and brake loading conditions. The design problem is formulated such that cross-sectional sizing variables are determined by minimizing the weight of a knuckle component subject to stresses, deformations, and frequency constraints. The initial design model is generated on the basis of an actual vehicle specification. The finite element analysis is conducted using ABAQUS, and optimal solutions are obtained via the moving least-squares method (MLSM) in the context of response-surface-based approximate optimization. For the meta-modelling of inequality constraint functions such as stresses, deformations, and frequency, a constraint-feasible moving least-squares method (CF-MLSM) is suggested in the present study. The method of CF-MLSM, compared with a conventional MLSM, has been shown to ensure the constraint feasibility in a case where the approximate optimization process is employed. The solution results from proposed optimization methods present improved design performances under both bump and brake conditions.