Interactive Shape Optimization with Design Elements

Abstract

This paper describes an attempt to integrate a shape optimization system into a CAD-environment. Apart from a description of the initial geometry, the optimization task requires several items of additional information to be added. The geometry has to be converted into a finite element or a boundary element model with the proper loads and boundary conditions, the shape of which must be linked with a finite number of variables to allow for the use of a general mathematical programming technique. Finally, information on op-timization criteria must be added. These problems, among others, are solved very conveniently by creating a user specified optimization model of the geometry with the well known “design element” technique. By taking advantage of the highly developed interactive features of a typical CAD-system, the use of shape optimization becomes a natural part of the Computer Aided Design- process.

The technique is implemented in the shape optimization system CA0S which is presently working in connection with the AutoCAD system. A simple example is presented.