Combined control-structural optimization (Q1179863)

For certain special types of structures the control of selected properties should be performed together with its general design. Traditional procedures where the control criteria are considered afterwards are not applicable. Examples of such structures are spacecrafts in which research equipment requires that precise positions be maintained and level of vibrations be kept below certain threshold. The authors introduced a combined formulation of control-structural optimization and solved a few examples concerning a cantilever beam with various loading and supporting conditions. The general approach, in which not the best ultimate design ready for execution is looked for, but only certain objective indications for further design considerations, is quite justified. The paper is addressed to specialists in structural optimization.