How do you handle complex and nonlinear problems using parametric modeling techniques in engineering design?

1 What is parametric modeling?

Parametric modeling is a way of creating and manipulating digital models based on parameters, which are variables that control the shape, size, position, and behavior of the model elements. For example, you can define a parameter for the radius of a circle, and then use it to create different circles with different radii. You can also link parameters to each other, or to external data sources, to create relationships and dependencies between the model elements. For example, you can link the radius of a circle to the length of a line, and then change the line length to automatically adjust the circle radius.

2 Why use parametric modeling for complex and nonlinear problems?

Complex and nonlinear problems, such as designing a bridge that can withstand various loads, temperatures, and wind conditions or optimizing a solar panel system for different orientations, locations, and seasons, are difficult to solve using conventional methods. Parametric modeling can help you address these issues by allowing you to generate multiple design alternatives quickly and easily by changing the parameters and constraints of your model. Additionally, it enables you to evaluate the performance and feasibility of your design alternatives via simulation, analysis, and visualization tools. Parametric modeling also helps you optimize your design solutions by finding the optimal values of your parameters that meet your objectives and criteria. Lastly, it can automate your design workflows by creating scripts, macros, or functions that perform repetitive or complex tasks.

3 How to set up your parametric model?

To set up your parametric model, you need to begin by defining your design problem and its objectives, criteria, and constraints. Next, you need to choose the right software and platform for your needs, such as CAD software or programming languages. When creating your geometric model, use sketches, curves, surfaces, solids, or meshes to represent your design elements and parameters, equations, expressions, or functions to control their properties and behaviors. Lastly, if needed, link the geometric model to external data sources or inputs like spreadsheets, databases, sensors, or web services.

4 How to explore your design space?

Exploring your design space requires varying parameters and constraints to observe the changes and responses in your model. You can accomplish this by manually adjusting your parameters with sliders, spinners, or input boxes. Additionally, you can generate a range of values for your parameters with random, uniform, or custom distributions to create a set of design alternatives. Algorithms such as genetic algorithms, gradient descent, or swarm intelligence can also be used to search for optimal or near-optimal values for your parameters that meet your objectives and criteria.

5 How to evaluate and optimize your design solutions?

To evaluate and optimize your design solutions, you need to measure and compare their performance and feasibility using simulation, analysis, and visualization tools. This can be done by utilizing physical, mathematical, or empirical models to simulate the behavior and response of your design solutions under different conditions and scenarios. For instance, finite element analysis, computational fluid dynamics, or structural analysis can be used to test the strength, durability, or efficiency of your design solutions. Additionally, indicators, metrics, or scores can be utilized to quantify and rank your design solutions based on your objectives and criteria. For example, cost, weight, energy consumption, or aesthetics can serve as measures to compare your design solutions. Lastly, charts, graphs, tables, or maps can be used to visualize and communicate your design solutions and their performance and feasibility. Histograms, scatter plots, Pareto charts, or heat maps are examples of visuals that can be employed to show the distribution, correlation, trade-offs, or sensitivity of your design solutions.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?