Boundary Element Methods in Optimal Shape Design — An Integrated Approach

Abstract

The present paper describes an implementation of the boundary element method (BEM) in optimal shape design. The computational advantages of the boundary element technique over the more traditionally used finite element method of analysis, are examined in context of the shape synthesis problem. An integrated analysis and optimization approach is also proposed for this problem. Approximate strategies that can be used in conjunction with boundary element techniques are briefly discussed. Numerical results are presented for shape design of torsional shafts and of structural components that can be characterized by a state of plane stress.