Abstract
In this paper, an analytical model of a cantilever beam having a midpoint load is considered for structural optimization and design. This involves creation of the geometry through a parametric study of all design variables. For this purpose, the optimization of the cantilever beam was elaborated in order to find the optimum geometry which minimizes its volume eventually for minimum weight by FEM (finite element method) analysis. Such geometry can be obtained by different combinations of width and height, so that the beam may have the same cross-sectional area, yet different dynamic behavior. So for optimum safe design, besides minimum volume it should have minimum vibration as well. In order to predict vibration, different dynamic analyses were performed simultaneously to identify the resonant frequencies and mode shapes belonging to the lowest three modes of vibration. Next, by introducing damping effects, the tip displacement and bending stress at the fixed end was evaluated under dynamic loads of varying frequency. Investigation of the results clearly shows that only structural analysis is not enough to predict the optimum values of dimension for safe design it must be aided by dynamic analysis as well.
