| Grant number: | 14/18928-2 |
| Support type: | Regular Research Grants |
| Duration: | February 01, 2015 - January 31, 2017 |
| Field of knowledge: | Engineering - Civil Engineering - Structural Engineering |
| Principal Investigator: | Edson Denner Leonel |
| Grantee: | Edson Denner Leonel |
| Home Institution: | Escola de Engenharia de São Carlos (EESC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil |
| Assoc. researchers: | Matteo Bruggi |
Abstract
This research plan addresses the development of numerical models based on coupling Boundary Element Method (BEM) and Level Set Method (LSM) for topological optimization analyses in 2D structures. The statement of structural configurations that leads to minimum expense of material and obey the material integrity requirements is one of major goals of structural design. This goal may be achieved by applying optimization techniques, as the minimization of the amount of used material leads to the maximization of structural efficiency. The geometric evolution of structural boundaries will be performed, on models proposed in this research plan, by using LSM. This method has recognized accuracy into curves propagation analyses and will provide the structural boundary mechanically efficient based on a predetermined speed function. This function, which governs the movement speed of each point on the structural boundary, depends on the intensity of Von Mises stresses acting on all points that belong to the analysed body. Due to the absence of domain mesh provided by BEM, this numerical method allows the determination of Von Mises stresses with high accuracy. Furthermore, the mesh reduction dimension provided by BEM makes it perfectly compatible for coupling with MLS, as both methods require only boundary information. As a result of this research, the development of numerical formulations and computational codes for topological optimization analyses in structures composed by isotropic materials, anisotropic materials or both are expected in order to contribute with this scientific field. In addition to that, the production of numerical tools, applicable in industry, is one of the purposes. (AU)