MULTIPLE OPTIMISATION ALGORITHM COMPARISON ON THE HEAVY-WEIGHT LOADING RAMP MECHANISM OPTIMISATION PROBLEM

Abstract

Several metaheuristic optimisation algorithms were used and compared to obtain an optimal solution for the geometric parameters of a mechanism used for a heavy-weight loading ramp. The optimisation goal was to reduce the force in the hydraulic cylinder to start the ramp, i.e. to lower and raise it. For the optimisation process, a mathematical model that describes the movement of the mechanism members was established, and the dimensions of the corresponding members of the mechanism were determined, as well as the positions of the characteristic points of the mechanism, which enables the most negligible force in the hydraulic cylinder used to start the ramp. A comparative analysis of the results obtained by different algorithms was done.