FEMtools Optimization

In combination with FEMtools Model Updating, the Optimization toobox it provides the unique possibility to perform design optimization on validated and updated finite element model.

FEMtools Optimization contains modules for:

• General Non-Linear Optimization - For solving arbitrary non-linear optimization problems.
• Size Optimization - For optimizing component parameters such as cross-section and thickness.
• Shape Optimization - For optimizing the shape of existing components.
• Topometry Optimization - Optimizing component parameters on an element-by-element basis
• Topology Optimization - Creating new designs with a layout optimized for a given load.

Sensitivity Analysis

Sensitivity analysis is a technique that allows an analyst to get a feeling on how structural responses of a model are influenced by modifications of parameters like spring stiffness, material stiffness, geometry etc. For more information, see FEMtools Model Updating.

General Non-Linear Optimization

Any arbitrary objective or constraint function can be used for optimization by programming it using the FEMtools Script language.  There are no fixed limits on the number of optimization parameters, objective functions or constraints. 

Optimization Problems:

FEMtools Optimization is build around a powerful general non-linear optimization solver the can handle the following types of optimization problems:

• Constrained Optimization - Optimization problems that include an arbitrary number of non-linear constraints.
• Multi-Objective Optimization - Optimization problems that include an arbitrary number of objective functions.
• Least-squares distance - Optimization problems that focus an minimizing the least-squares distance with a set of reference data.
• Pareto Optimization.

Size Optimization

Size optimization allows optimizing the properties of designable elements like bars, plates, etc. 

• Easy selection of a wide range of sizing parameters..
• Fast gradient computation with the FEMtools sensitivity module.
• Full flexibility in the problem definition by using the FEMtools Script language.

Shape Optimization

The shape optimization module optimizes the shape of an existing component.

Features:

The FEMtools shape optimization module offers the following features: 

• Modifying FE-models without requiring the underlying CAD data.
• Possibility to handle large mesh deformations by using mesh morphing technology.
• Full flexibility in the problem definition by using the FEMtools Script language.

Mesh Morphing:

The shape optimization module offers three methods to deform the mesh of the FE-model:

• Lattice-Based Free Mesh Deformation - Deformation of the mesh based on a set of brick shaped lattice cells.  The mesh is deformed by moving the vertex points of the lattice cells.
• Skeleton-Based Free Mesh Deformation - Deformation of the mesh based on a set of control points that are connected by a number of curves (line, spline or circle).  The mesh is deformed by moving the control points.
• Using a Shape Basis - The deformed mesh is a linear combination of the shapes that define the shape basis.  Any arbitrary shape can be used as basis shape.

Topometry Optimization

Topometry optimization enables element-by-element size optimization of FE-models.

Design Problems:

The topometry optimization module provides a solution for the following design problems:

• Minimum static compliance design - Provides the topometry that minimizes the static compliance considering all the defined load cases.
• Maximum fundamental eigenvalue design - Provides the topometry that maximizes the resonant frequency of the first vibration mode.
• Minimum maximal FRF-level - Provides the topometry that minimizes the compliance under a harmonic load

Filters:

The topometry module offers the following filters:

• First order checkerboard filters.
• Second order checkerboard filters.
• Mesh independent filters.

Manufacturing Constraints:

• Symmetry constraints.
• Extrusion constraints.
• User-defined manufacturing constraints.

Topology Optimization

Topology optimization module can handle both 2D and 3D design spaces.

Design problems: 

The topology optimization module provides a solution for the following design problems:

• Minimum static compliance design - Provides the topology that minimizes the static compliance considering all the defined load cases.
• Maximum fundamental eigenvalue design - Provides the topology that maximizes the resonant frequency of the first vibration mode.
• Minimum dynamic compliance design - Provides the topology that minimizes the compliance under a harmonic load

Filters:

The topology module offers the following filters:

• First order checkerboard filter.
• Second order checkerboard filter.

Manufacturing Constraints:

The following constraints are available to improve the manufacturability of the optimal design:

• Minimum member size constraints.
• Symmetry constraints.
• Extrusion constraints.
• Die-casting constraints.
• User-defined manufacturing constraints.

User Interface

• All definition, editing and analysis accessible via intuitive menus and dialog boxes or using free format commands for batch processing and process automation.
• Complete electronic documentation.
• Dedicated graphics viewers for model inspection and results evaluation.
• Point-and-click interactive selection.
• Direct access to FEA and test data.
• Unlimited customization and extension using FEMtools Script language.

Prerequisites

• FEMtools Framework with basic FEA Solvers (included).
• FEMtools Dynamics (included).

Options

• FEMtools Model Updating.
• ANSYS interface and driver
• ABAQUS interface and driver.
• UNIVERSAL FILE interface and driver
• NASTRAN interface and driver.