Optimality criterion approach using tapered finite elements with nodal averaging technique for two-dimensional problems

Abstract

Use of tapered finite elements with three design variables per element and nodal averaging technique in the optimality criterion approach is studied in this paper. Minimum volume design of a uniformly heated square plate with a single temperature constraint is obtained using the proposed method. The present results with a lower order finite element mesh compare very well with those obtained with optimality criterion approach using constant thickness elements and with mathematical programming techniques using a higher order finite element mesh.