Optimization of crane hooks considered as curved beams with different cross-sections – a comparative study using MATLAB

Abstract

This paper presents the analysis and the optimization of the geometric parameters of different crane hook cross-section types. The study included trapezoidal, rectangular, square, elliptic, circular and T cross-section. The reduction of hook critical cross-section area was set as the primary goal for the optimization process. The criterion of maximum permissible stress is set as the constraint function, while the maximum stress values at the characteristic points were calculated according to Winkler-Bach theory, considering the hook as a curved beam. The optimization procedure was conducted using some metaheuristic optimization methods, in conjunction with known MATLAB functions. The goal of this research was to determine the optimum geometric parameters of mentioned cross-section types and to compare them in other to gain some conclusions and choice recommendations.