Elements of structural optimization. (Q5905482)

The book deals with the discussion of applying optimization methods in designing various kinds of automative, aerospace, civil engineering and machine industry and other engineering fields. The book contains eleven chapters. Chapter 1 comprises an introduction to the subject and the explanation of the goals and scope of the monograph, and also gives a short survey of the optimization problems. Chapter 2 deals with classical tools in structural optimization using differential and variational calculus. Chapter 3 presents the applications of linear mathematical programming in limit analysis and minimum weight design. Chapter 4 contains unconstrained optimization methods for one and several variables including specialized Quasi-Newton methods. Chapter 5 deals with constrained optimization methods including Lagrange multipliers, gradient methods, feasible direction and penalty function methods. Chapter 6 contains some aspects of the optimization process in practice including sequential linear and nonlinear programming. A list of optimization packages and test problems is specified. Chapter 7 is concerned with sensitivity of discrete systems. Finite difference approximations, sensitivity derivatives of static displacement and stress constraints as well as sensitivity calculations for eigenvalue problems and sensitivity of constraints on transient problems are considered. Chapter 8 contains introduction to variational sensitivity analysis. Linear and nonlinear static analysis, vibration and buckling problems as well as static shape sensitivity are discussed. Chapter 9 deals with dual and optimality criteria methods for single and several constraints. Fully stressed design is also included. Chapter 10 is devoted to decomposition and multilevel optimization. Chapter 11 contains optimum design of laminated composite materials. This is the excellent book, covering a fairly wide range of topics and adressed to researchers and design engineers, but it may as well be used as an auxiliary text in teaching a graduate course in structural optimization.