Large Scale Structural Optimization by Finite Elements

Abstract : The optimization code contained in the SAMCEF ('Systems pour 1'Analyses des Millieux Continuous par Elements Finis') is built to loop on the static and dynamic analysis modules. As a result all the possibilities offered by these modules are still applicable, as well as those of the auxiliary modules, like mesh generators, plotting capabilities, etc. It also implies that, given a finite element model, the user may ask for one or more optimization steps, without anything else to do than to define the design constraints. The design variables are taken as the transverse sizes of the finite elements, i.e., the cross-sectional areas f bars and beams or the thicknesses of membranes, shear panles and flat shells. The objective function to be minimized is defined as a linear function of the design variables and it corresponds, most often, to the structural weight.