An optimization process for extension spring design

International audienceThis paper presents a calculation process to optimize the design of helical extension springs whatever the nature of the specifications. This process can be used even in the early design stages as data are set with interval values. It includes a large set of constraints, which can express the designer's requirements, but also the standards and the technical capability limits of spring manufacturers. The problem is resolved using the Excel solver. The required starting point is automatically calculated by a dedicated algorithm, which uses interval arithmetic. Two examples are presented