A CAD-based design parameterization for shape optimization of elastic solids

Abstract

In this paper a CAD-based design sensitivity analysis (DSA) and optimization method using Pro/ENGINEER for shape design of structural components is presented. The CAD-based design model is critically important for multidisciplinary shape design optimization. Only when each discipline can compute the design sensitivity coefficients of the CAD-based design model, can a true multidisciplinary what-if study, trade-off analysis, and design optimization be carried out. The proposed method will allow the design engineer to compute design sensitivity coefficients of structural performance measures such. as stress and displacement, evaluated using existing finite element analysis (FEA) tools, both h- and p-versions, with respect to design variables defined in the parameterized CAD model. The proposed method consists of (i) a CAD-based design parameterization technique that ties the structural DSA and optimization to a CAD tool; (ii) a design velocity field computation that defines material point movement due to design change in CAD geometry, satisfies linearity and regularity requirements, and supports both hand p-version FEA meshed using existing mesh generators; and (iii) a design optimization method that supports structural geometric and finite element model updates in Pro/ENGINEER during the optimization process. © 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd.