scholarly journals An Investigation of PWB Layout by Genetic Algorithms to Maximize Fatigue Life

1999 ◽  
Vol 121 (1) ◽  
pp. 31-36 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. J. Scholand ◽  
R. E. Fulton ◽  
B. Bras

Thermal considerations in printed wiring board (PWB) assemblies are becoming increasingly important as packaging constraints shrink and power use escalates. In this paper, we provide a study on the potential for a genetic algorithm-driven PWB layout design tool to improve the thermal performance of such assemblies. As a case study, the thermomechanical fatigue of surface mounted leadless chip carriers on an FR4 epoxy board is used. We have found that by utilizing appropriate formula-based engineering approximations, the efficiency of parallel implementations of genetic algorithms in finding near-optimal and results makes this approach effective as an explorative “scouting” approach to identify promising board configurations for more computationally expensive evaluations such as finite element method.

Author(s):  
T. R. Grimm

Abstract The importance of the finite element method as an engineering tool for design and analysis is emphasized in a senior level elective course taught at Michigan Technological University. The course emphasizes hands-on experience with computers and the pre- and post-analysis of results to establish confidence in solutions obtained. The students learn by using the finite element method to “solve” several design projects, rather than by being told about the method without significant actual experience. They also learn about the basis of the method, including formation of the matrix equations required and the numerical methods used in their solution. Intelligent use of the method requires that engineers understand both the mechanics of how to apply the method, i.e modeling requirements, and the limitations imposed by the basic solution process. The course provides the students with important experience in using the powerful finite element method as a design tool. It requires a strong background of fundamentals and stimulates the problem solving thinking skills so essential to industry.


Author(s):  
Luis Santos-Correa ◽  
Diego Pineda-Maigua ◽  
Fernando Ortega-Loza ◽  
Jhonatan Meza-Cartagena ◽  
Ignacio Abril-Naranjo ◽  
...  

Author(s):  
Patricia Brackin ◽  
Jonathan Colton

Abstract As part of a strategy for obtaining preliminary design specifications from the House of Quality, genetic algorithms were used to generate and optimize preliminary design specifications for an automotive case study. This paper describes the House of Quality for the automotive case study. In addition, the genetic algorithm chosen, the genetic coding, the methods used for mutation and reproduction, and the fitness and penalty functions are descrobed. Methods for determining convergence are examined. Finally, test results show that the genetic algorithm produces reasonable preliminary design specifications.


Author(s):  
Robert J. Bernhard ◽  
John E. Huff

Abstract Energy flow analysis methods, particularly as implemented using the finite element method, are useful as design techniques for high frequency structural-acoustic applications. In this paper, the derivation of energy flow analysis techniques are summarized. Particular attention is given to the specification of joint models for situations where there is a discontinuity in either geometric properties or material properties. The finite element formulation of this approach is also summarized. A case study is included to illustrate the utility of the method as a design technique.


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