On the basis of kinematic analysis for steering mechanism in a certain wheeled vehicle

a mathematic model of optimal design is provided.An improved genetic algorithm(GA) is adopted to implement the conceptual optimization design and optimal parameters satisfying design requirement are obtained using the GA toolbox of Matlab.Some critical problems on GA are discussed in this research

such as an improved binary encoding method

calculation of fitness based on penalty function

construction of genetic operators

and the criteria for heredity termination

etc.Finally a comparison of optimization results between complex method and genetic algorithm is carried out

which shows the value of objective function has decreased 6.6% under GA.This will help decrease the slippage of steering wheel and wear extent of tyre.At the same time

it also verifies the feasibility and superiority of genetic algorithm in solving the nonlinear optimization problems with many restraints and variables.