Numerical Method for Domain Optimization Problems Using a General Purpose FEM Code (Traction Method Approach)

Abstract

This paper describes the numerical method for domain optimization problems based on the traction method. The traction method was recently proposed as a solution to domain optimization problems. With the traction method, the domain variation is analyzed under a condition where the objective functional decreases. We propose a convenient numerical method using a general purpose FEM to apply the traction method to practical problems. The domain optimization problem treated here is a mean compliance minimization problem of linear elastic structures. The computed results of a multiply connected plate and a solid torsion bar are compared with those obtained by other authors. The practical application of the method is also demonstrated with a plane sample and a solid one. The results show sufficient validity of the proposed numerical method for practical domain optimization problems. © 1994, The Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers. All rights reserved.