An efficient shape optimization method based on FEM and B-spline curves and shaping a torque converter clutch disk

An efficient shape optimization scheme has been developed for designing axis symmetric structures. The sequential linear programming and Simplex method are coupled with finite element analysis. Selected sets of master nodes on design boundaries are employed as design variables and assigned to move towards their normal directions. By interpolating the repositioned master nodes, B-spline curves are constructed so that the remaining nodes on the design boundaries efficiently settle on the B-spline curves. A mesh smoothing scheme is also applied to interior nodes to maintain the finite elements in good quality. Applying these techniques a numerical implementation is presented to obtain the optimum design of an automobile torque converter clutch disk subjected to a hydraulic pressure and centrifugal force loads. The results give the optimum shape of the disk showing weight saving up to 13% after the shape optimization.