Structural optimization of an automotive door using the kriging interpolation method

Weight reduction of automobile components has been sought to achieve fuel efficiency and energy conservation. There are two approaches for weight reduction: use of materials lighter than steel and structural redesign. The latter has been performed by adopting hydroforming, tailor-welded blank (TWB) technology, optimization, etc. In this research, the kriging interpolation method and a simulated annealing algorithm are applied in the design of a front door made by TWB technology. The design variables were the thicknesses of the parts and the positions of the parting lines. A thickness set, considered as a candidate design of each part, is not arbitrarily determined, but selected from the thicknesses of standard products, and so it is a discrete set. This research presents the discrete and continuous structural optimization of an automotive door design.