Design Sensitivity Analysis and Optimization of Vibrating Beams With Variable Support Locations

Abstract

Abstract The method of material derivatives is employed in this paper to derive analytical equations to calculate eigenvalue sensitivity coefficients of a continuous beam with respect to support variables. A finite element scheme is then implemented to numerically validate these sensitivity equations. Finally, design optimization of a vibrating beam subjected to frequency constraints is investigated. Results suggest that a small amount of adjustment in support locations and stiffnesses can greatly improve the quality of the design.