An interactive pre-processor for structural design sensitivity analysis and optimization

Abstract An interactive pre-processor for a Design Sensitivity Analysis and Optimization Workstation (DSOW) is presented. The processes of design parameterization and performance characterization are proposed as distinct design steps in the design process. These design parameterization steps enhance interaction between the design, analysis, and manufacture engineering groups that make up the concurrent engineering design team. By using computer graphics and structural modeling software to define the design parameters that characterize the design of structural components, the DSOW provides a natural way of defining acceptable classes of designs. Functions that a design workstation is required to support and components of the workstation that execute these functions are identified. These functions include the capability to launch software codes that are supported, to define design parameterizations and performance requirements, to compute design sensitivity information, and to support interactive design optimization.