Automated Three-Dimensional Spatial Optimization for Multidomain Systems With Alignment Constraints

Abstract This article presents a modeling framework to optimize the three-dimensional placement of elements inside a given design space, explicitly accounting for their rotation, relative placement, and the alignment of connections. Specifically, we start from an integrated design framework and devise a model for automatic optimization of the three-dimensional placement of elements from a system-level perspective, for a predefined topology. Second, we derive constraints to prevent overlap between elements and to ensure automatic alignment of connection points in the case of mechanical connections. Finally, we showcase our framework on a four-wheel-driven electric vehicle powertrain by framing the problem as a mixed-integer second-order conic program, and we investigate the impact of different design approaches. The results demonstrate that our framework is capable of efficiently generating system design solutions in a fully automated manner using basic component properties only.