ISSN:
1435-6066
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Production Engineering, Mining and Metallurgy, Traffic Engineering, Precision Mechanics
,
Technology
Notes:
Abstract Input Variable Expansion (IVE) is a domain-independent, algorithmic methodology for generating new designs. These designs are based on a known design which is cast as an optimization problem, described by its first principle equations. IVE performs design space expansion by replicating the topology of the initial design, assigning independent properties to each region, and distributing a selected input to the newly created regions. Optimization information is employed in the selection of the distributed input. The resulting design is optimized, using symbolic optimization techniques when possible. In more complex and industrially relevant problems where symbolic methods are more difficult, numerical methods are used to optimize the resulting designs. Trends over generations of designs are observed and the limiting designs are induced. These designs incorporate new features, and may exhibit either an improved objective or a feasible design space replacing an infeasible one. IVE is a complementary expansion technique to Dimensional Variable Expansion (DVE), developed by Cagan and Agogino (1991a). Together, IVE and DVE initiate a library of design space expansion techniques which, in some cases, eliminate the need for prepostulated superstructures for finding the optimal solution. IVE is demonstrated in the designs of a catalyst bed, a set of columns under axial load, and a chemical reactor network.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01580148
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