Isogeometric Shape Design Optimization of Structures Subjected to Design-dependent Loads

In this paper, based on an isogeometric approach, we have developed a shape design optimization method for plane elasticity problems subjected to design-dependent loads. The conventional shape optimization using the finite element method has some difficulties in the parameterization of geometry. In an isogeometric analysis, however, the geometric properties are already embedded in the B-spline basis functions and control points so that it has potential capability to overcome the aforementioned difficulties. The solution space for the response analysis can be represented in terms of the same NURBS basis functions to represent the geometry, which yields a precise analysis model that exactly represents the normal and curvature depending on the applied loads. A continuum-based isogeometric adjoint sensitivity is extensively derived for the plane elasticity problems under the design-dependent loads. Through some numerical examples, the developed isogeometric sensitivity analysis method is verified to show excellent agreement with finite difference sensitivity.