Optimization of the number and positions of fixture locators for curved thin-walled parts by whale optimization algorithm
Cheng Li, Zhongqi Wang, Hua Tong, Shaogang Tian, Yang Liu
Abstract
Abstract Optimizing the fixture layout of the locating element is an important method to reduce the clamping deformation of thin-walled parts. A method for optimizing the fixture layout based on whale optimization algorithm is proposed in this paper, the number and positions of the fixtures for curved thin-walled parts are optimized. Firstly, the multi-point flexible locating tooling for curved thin-walled parts is developed based on the multi-point support technology. Then the strain energy is used to describe the deformation of the curved thin-walled parts in all directions, and an optimization model that takes the position of the locating element as a decision variable and minimum strain energy as the goal is established. Combined with the whale optimization algorithm and the parameterized finite element analysis, the optimal design of the number and positions of fixture locators for curved thin-walled parts are realized. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is validated by the aircraft skin locating layout optimization, and a multi-point flexible locating and deformation measurement platform is constructed to verify the results of finite element calculations.