A hybrid algorithm for optimizing welding points of compliant assemblies

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a hybrid algorithm of the heuristic algorithm and the orthogonal design to optimize schemes of welding points (WPs). Assembly variation plays an important role in product manufacture. Different schemes of WPs can influence the sensitivity matrices between part and assembly variations.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper proposes a hybrid algorithm to optimize schemes of WPs among components. The hybrid algorithm is composed of the heuristic algorithm and the orthogonal design. The heuristic algorithm is used to optimize the initial scheme; moreover, the last result is generated according to the orthogonal table. Although the algorithm cannot assure generating the optimal scheme, it can acquire the satisfying result by using few times of finite element analysis.

Findings

Finally, a rear bracket lamp assembly is illustrated to optimize the schemes of WPs between two components. Results show that the algorithm is efficient to generate the optimized WPs scheme for sheet metal assemblies.

Originality/value

A hybrid algorithm is proposed to optimize schemes of WPs among components, which is composed of the heuristic algorithm and the orthogonal design.

Citation

Yan‐Feng, X. (2009), "A hybrid algorithm for optimizing welding points of compliant assemblies", Assembly Automation, Vol. 29 No. 2, pp. 167-173. https://doi.org/10.1108/01445150910945615