BESHOP: A Program Package for Shape Optimization in 2-D Elasticity Problems
Abstract In this paper a package is introduced which handles shape optimization in 2-dimensional elasticity problems where Boundary Element Method is used for the analysis phase affording a large reduction in the problem dimensionality together with a variant of the Method of Center Points for the optimization phase. This optimization method allows a high reduction in the number of constraints considered in each step, as well as low number of cycles, resulting in notable overall efficiency. Design variables in optimum shape determination consists of basic nodal coordinates for B-spline functions as the means to define smooth boundary curves. Maximum stress and/or displacements at critical boundary points are observed as constraints in each cycle of the procedure. Three classical case examples are solved successfully, and the results are compared with those of others, illustrating the superior capabilities of the program package.