FEA simulation and RSM based parametric optimisation of vibrating transmission gearbox housing

Summary The main objective of this research work is optimisation of connecting bolts number using Detuning principle. Connecting bolts are used for constraining transmission system on vehicle frame. The model of transmission system designed for FEA and RSM analysis consists of 5–37 connecting bolts for tightly mounting on vehicle frame. At zero displacement condition when all 37 connecting bolts were constraint, natural frequency reaches in a higher order range of 1650.5–3565.1 Hz. This higher order range of frequency makes the model a conservative design when critical frequency for medium duty vehicle varies from 0 to 100 Hz. Using detuning principle and RSM optimisation technique an optimised number of connecting bolts can be identified. Response surface methodology (RSM) has been used for parametric optimisation and finite element analysis (FEA) was used for calculation of modal frequency and mode shapes. FEA analysis was done using ANSYS 14.5 and solid edge, and Pro-E has been used for geometric modelling.