On optimality of column geometry

Abstract

Critical loads of columns under compressive follower forces have been widely discussed in the literature. By means of shape optimization, improvements by factors of more than eight could be achieved. However, the obtained solutions turn out to be not robust against perturbations of shape or material parameters. The aim of this paper is to explain this sensitivity effect, basing on a study of eigenforms. Further, a robust alternative to the classical optimization approach is proposed.