Design and Optimization of Mechatronic Systems Using a Holistic and Parametric Simulation Approach

In the field of vibration technology mechatronic systems are frequently used for noise and vibration control, condition monitoring or energy harvesting. Numerical simulations and optimizations support the virtual design and development process. Yet, most systems are usually designed as auxiliary systems based on existing host structures and are optimized for only one main purpose (e.g. maximum vibration reduction). Time costly parameter optimizations with complex models in late phases of the development process are still common. In this paper a holistic approach for the design and optimization of mechatronic systems is presented. Efficient and parametric models of the mechanical host structure are integrated within a multi-objective optimization environment for mechatronic systems. This will help to accelerate product development cycles and enables fast parameter studies in combination with detailed and accurate numerical models. The performance of the proposed approach is demonstrated by an exemplary application, where the structural dynamics, vibration control and energy flows are considered within a holistic optimization.