Abstract: The layout optimization of stiffeners for engine flywheel housing of a truck was discussed. In the layout optimization, the minimum weight of stiffeners was taken as the objective function with the stress constrain, the stiffeners was placed at the locations with high energy(or stress). To identify the element and efficiency so that the inefficiently elements of stiffeners can be removed, the sensitivity of the strain energy of stiffeners was introduced, and a search criterion for locations of stiffeners was given. In each iterative design, a high efficiency reanalysis method was used to reduce computational effort. Compared with traditional optimization,the proposed method can greatly reduce optimization effort and improve design precision.

Key words: engineering mechanics, engine’s flywheel housing, stiffeners, layout optimization, finite element system