This paper presents a method for decomposition of structural products in order to provide the product designer with choices for feasible assemblies. The synthesis of assemblies is done by decomposing a complex structure obtained via structural topology optimization into an assembly of multiple structural members with simpler geometries. The aim is at providing a systematic approach to explore a large number of decompositions prior to the detailed component design phase. Initially, the structure, which is represented as a bitmap image, is transformed to a graph with equivalent topology through application of image processing algorithms. Then, the obtained graph is decomposed by a genetic algorithm into subgraphs using stiffness-based criteria. Results for an example structure are given to clarify and discuss the method.
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December 2002
Technical Papers
Decomposition-Based Assembly Synthesis Based on Structural Considerations
F. A. Yetis, Graduate Student Research Assistant,
F. A. Yetis, Graduate Student Research Assistant
Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
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K. Saitou, Assistant Professor
K. Saitou, Assistant Professor
Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
Search for other works by this author on:
F. A. Yetis, Graduate Student Research Assistant
Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
K. Saitou, Assistant Professor
Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
Contributed by the Design Theory and Methodology Committee for publication in the JOURNAL OF MECHANICAL DESIGN. Manuscript received February 2000; revised March 2001. Associate Editor: J. Cagan.
J. Mech. Des. Dec 2002, 124(4): 593-601 (9 pages)
Published Online: November 26, 2002
Article history
Received:
February 1, 2000
Revised:
March 1, 2001
Online:
November 26, 2002
Citation
Yetis, F. A., and Saitou, K. (November 26, 2002). "Decomposition-Based Assembly Synthesis Based on Structural Considerations ." ASME. J. Mech. Des. December 2002; 124(4): 593–601. https://doi.org/10.1115/1.1519276
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