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Multiobjective optimization of a steering linkage

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Abstract

In this paper, multi-objective optimization of a rack-and-pinion steering linkage is proposed. This steering linkage is a common mechanism used in small cars with three advantages as it is simple to construct, economical to manufacture, and compact and easy to operate. In the previous works, many researchers tried to minimize a steering error but minimization of a turning radius is somewhat ignored. As a result, a multi-objective optimization problem is assigned to simultaneously minimize a steering error and a turning radius. The design variables are linkage dimensions. The design problem is solved by the hybrid of multi-objective population-based incremental learning and differential evolution with various constraint handling schemes. The new design strategy leads to effective design of rack-and-pinion steering linkages satisfying both steering error and turning radius criteria.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Sustainable and Infrastructure Research and Development Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen City, 40002, Thailand

    S. Sleesongsom & S. Bureerat

Authors
  1. S. Sleesongsom
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  2. S. Bureerat
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Correspondence to S. Bureerat.

Additional information

Recommended by Associate Editor Gang-Won Jang

Suwin Sleesongsom received the Ph.D. degree in engineering from Khonkaen University, Khonkaen, Thailand, in 2012. Currently, he is Lecturer in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Chiangrai College. His research interests include multidisciplinary design optimization mechanism/machine design, aeroelastic design of aircraft structures and Mechanical vibration.

Sujin Bureerat received the Ph.D. degree in engineering from Manchester University, Manchester, U.K., in 2001. Currently, he is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, KhonKaen University. His research interests include multidisciplinary design/optimization, evolutionary computation, aeroelastic design of aircraft structures, logistics, finite element analysis and experimental modal analysis.

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Sleesongsom, S., Bureerat, S. Multiobjective optimization of a steering linkage. J Mech Sci Technol 30, 3681–3691 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12206-016-0730-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12206-016-0730-4

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