Relaxed approach to structural optimization

Robert V. Kohn

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Consider a material whose physical properties are controllable, with two possible states. Suppose further that the control can be applied in a distributed manner, e.g. by laying down a very fine grid and specifying the state of each cell independently. Can we design 'smart structures' by adjusting the control to optimize some performance criterion? This problem is difficult because the set of possible controls is discrete. There is a natural way to make it continuous, however, known as the 'relaxed approach.' Physically, it amounts to the introduction of composite materials as structural components. Mathematically, it amounts to the introduction of fluttering controls. It has evolved over the past 15 years, through the combined effort of many individuals. This is a review paper. The goal is not to present new mathematical results, but rather to publicize the technique of relaxation. Perhaps some readers will known of new problems where this technique could be used to advantage.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
PublisherPubl by Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers
Pages325-327
Number of pages3
ISBN (Print)0819411523
StatePublished - 1993
EventSmart Structures and Materials 1993: Mathematics in Smart Structures - Albuquerque, NM, USA
Duration: Feb 1 1993Feb 3 1993

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume1919
ISSN (Print)0277-786X

Other

OtherSmart Structures and Materials 1993: Mathematics in Smart Structures
CityAlbuquerque, NM, USA
Period2/1/932/3/93

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Computer Science Applications
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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