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Automatic Finite Element Modeling for Use with Three-Dimensional Shape Optimization

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The Optimum Shape

Part of the book series: General Motors Research Laboratories Symposia Series ((RLSS))

Abstract

A key aspect of the shape optimization process is the generation and control of the numerical analysis models used to evaluate the constraint and gradient information required during the optimization. In general, the numerical analysis discretization, assumed here to be a finite element mesh, must be changed as the object evolves from its original to optimal shape. This paper discusses the capabilities needed to automatically generate and control these finite element models.

The paper considers the general questions of shape control as well as numerical model generation and control for three-dimensional objects. A specific approach to automatic mesh generation, the modified octree technique, is presented which is well suited for both three-dimensional shape optimization and adaptive finite element analysis. Finally, the integration of the component modeling capabilities needed for automatic three-dimensional shape optimization is discussed.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Center for Interactive Computer Graphics, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA

    M. S. Shephard

  2. ARIES Technology, Inc., Lowell, Massachusetts, USA

    M. A. Yerry

Authors
  1. M. S. Shephard
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  2. M. A. Yerry
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Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. General Motors Research Laboratories, USA

    J. A. Bennett  & M. E. Botkin  & 

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© 1986 Plenum Press, New York

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Shephard, M.S., Yerry, M.A. (1986). Automatic Finite Element Modeling for Use with Three-Dimensional Shape Optimization. In: Bennett, J.A., Botkin, M.E. (eds) The Optimum Shape. General Motors Research Laboratories Symposia Series. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4615-9483-3_5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4615-9483-3_5

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Boston, MA

  • Print ISBN: 978-1-4615-9485-7

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-4615-9483-3

  • eBook Packages: Springer Book Archive

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