Abstract: Topology optimization technique utilizes constant
element densities as design parameters. Finally, optimal distribution
contours of the material densities between voids (0) and solids (1) in
design domain represent the determination of topology. It means that
regions with element density values become occupied by solids in
design domain, while there are only void phases in regions where no
density values exist. Therefore the void regions of topology
optimization results provide design information to decide appropriate
depositions of web-opening in structure. Contrary to the basic
objective of the topology optimization technique which is to obtain
optimal topology of structures, this present study proposes a new idea
that topology optimization results can be also utilized for decision of
proper web-opening’s position. Numerical examples of linear
elastostatic structures demonstrate efficiency of methodological
design processes using topology optimization in order to determinate
the proper deposition of web-openings.
Abstract: The aim of the current work is to present a comparison among three popular optimization methods in the inverse elastostatics problem (IESP) of flaw detection within a solid. In more details, the performance of a simulated annealing, a Hooke & Jeeves and a sequential quadratic programming algorithm was studied in the test case of one circular flaw in a plate solved by both the boundary element (BEM) and the finite element method (FEM). The proposed optimization methods use a cost function that utilizes the displacements of the static response. The methods were ranked according to the required number of iterations to converge and to their ability to locate the global optimum. Hence, a clear impression regarding the performance of the aforementioned algorithms in flaw identification problems was obtained. Furthermore, the coupling of BEM or FEM with these optimization methods was investigated in order to track differences in their performance.