A duality principle and related computational method for a class of structural optimization problems in elasticity

Abstract

In this article we develop a duality principle and concerning computational method for a structural optimization problem in elasticity. We consider the problem of finding the optimal topology for an elastic solid which minimizes its structural inner energy resulting from the action of external loads to be specified. The main results are obtained through standard tools of convex analysis and duality theory. We emphasize our algorithm do not include a filter to process the results, so that the result obtained is indeed a critical point for the original optimization problem. Finally, we present some numerical examples concerning applications of the theoretical results established.