Use of Parametric Approach to Optimize Structural Adhesives and Spot Welds in CAE Based Optimization

Use of parametric approach to optimize CAE models for various objectives is a common practice these days. In addition to load members, the connection entities such as welds and adhesives play an important role in overall performance matrix. Hence adding the connection entities to the pool of design variables during an optimization exercise provide additional opportunity for design exploration. The method presented in this paper offers a unique approach to parameterize adhesive lines by evaluating the possibility of using structural adhesives as intermittent patches rather than continuous lines. The paper discusses two optimization studies 1) structural adhesive patches along with spot weld pitch as design variables, and 2) structural adhesive patches with gage variables. These studies include the Body in White (BiW) and Trimmed Body in White (TBiW) assessments. The goal of the first study is to reduce total length of structural adhesive, while the goal of the second study is to save mass. The constraint,k for both studies is to maintain baseline NVH performance.