New Two-Step Optimization Process of an Active Engine Mount - Applying DFSS Techniques and Taguchi Methods of Robust Design Strategies: Part I

摘要

It was desired to optimize an existing design concept of an active engine mount technology intended for engines with controlled cylinder deactivation. Specifically, this case study addresses how this active Noise & Vibration countermeasure was optimized using techniques derived from Taguchi Robust Engineering and DFSS strategies. This paper will focus primarily on how the appropriate robust design strategy was applied including the selection of the response function, a properly sized orthogonal array for the design control factors, and a sufficient noise strategy. A discussion of the design control factors, noise factors, Design of Experiment (DOE), and post-experiment standardized signal-to-noise ratio optimization analysis of the non-linear response function will be presented. Design control parameters included passive attributes of hydraulic engine mounts as well as active/electronic components. Noise strategy was defined using three variables; heat and load cycling aging, ambient temperature, and static preload. In addition, passive performance of the active mount was analyzed using non-dynamic response functions and checked against best practice performance requirements. Results obtained from the study have documented the process to optimize a design for variation using dynamic response function for the active behavior of the mount, and nominal-the-best Type I from Taguchi Methods for passive behavior. The optimized design is planned to be prototyped and verified by experiment. The paper documents the application of the latest thinking in the field of Robust Engineering and DFSS strategies. The methods, techniques, and process are equally applicable to other elastomer-based, anti-vibration devices.