Optimal Mass Design of a Single-stage Helical Gear Unit with Genetic Algorithms

The problem of minimum mass design of a single-stage helical gear unit represents a real interest, since the most commonly encountered mechanical power transmission require low weight. This paper presents an optimal design mass minimization problem of a single-stage helical gear unit, complete with the sizing of shafts, gearing and housing using genetic algorithms (GAs). It can be observed that the proposed optimal design with GAs has the potential to yield considerably better solutions than the traditional heuristics. At the same time, the GAs offer a better understanding of the trade-offs between various objectives (such as service life and mass).