A Second Order Approximation Technique for Robust Shape Optimization

Abstract

We present a second order approximation for the robust counterpart of general uncertain nonlinear programs with state equation given by a partial di erential equation.We show how the approximated worst-case functions, which are the essential part of the approximated robust counterpart, can be formulated as trust-region problems that can be solved effciently using adjoint techniques. Further, we describe how the gradients of the worst-case functions can be computed analytically combining a sensitivity and an adjoint approach. This methodis applied to shape optimization in structural mechanics in order to obtain optimal solutions that are robust with respect to uncertainty in acting forces. Numerical results are presented.