Abstract
The optimal design problem for increasing dynamic stiffness using hybrid model which composed of original detailed BIW(body in white) and impinged beam elements is investigated. Using the characteristics of the beam elements and design sensitivity analysis this approach utilizes an optimization technique to determine the optimal section properties of beam elements. The constraint is to increase the first natural frequency by five percent compared with original one. The results show that the first torsion and bending natural frequencies are increased by five percent using hybrid model and optimization. These results indicate that this optimization method can be employed to enhance the dynamic stiffness of vehicle body structure in design concept stage.