2024

Optimization of Structures and Mechanical Systems

Name: Optimization of Structures and Mechanical Systems
Code: EME13157D
6 ECTS
Duration: 15 weeks/156 hours
Scientific Area: Mechanical Engineering

Teaching languages: Portuguese
Languages of tutoring support: Portuguese

Sustainable Development Goals

Learning Goals

This course aims to prepare the students for using optimization computational tools. The student should be able to develop the analysis of mechanical systems and structural optimization. The main objective is to provide computational tools and analysis methodologies. When finishing the course the students should be able to computationally analyse of the optimal design of structural and mechanical systems.

Contents

Objective functions on structures. Optimization algorithms. Local and global optimum. Sensitivity Analysis: design variables. Sensibilities by finite difference. Analytical sensitivities. Automatic differentiation. Classic algorithms, evolutionary and genetic. Use of Matlab and Ansys programs in analysis and optimization of structures, plates, shells and composites structures.
Global systems of equations to analyze kinematic mechanism and its numeric solution. The resolution using the Newton-Raphson iteration method, and the modularity of the construction of the jacobiana array. Analysis of models contained in commercial codes and its applicability.
Beam and plate finite elements. Formulation of flexible bodies. Methods of substructures. Linearization complex systems. Control of mechanical systems and structures as application examples. Biomechanics of movement as a test case. Contact/impact of mechanical systems

Teaching Methods

Lectures and tutoring, with each student being responsible for reading the bibliography advised by the teacher.
For some topics there may be seminars focused in specific points of the course program.
Evaluation: Formulation assignments and design of a FE computational code, with final discussion.