"Multi-scale design optimization of complex structures" Saartje Arnout, K.U.Leuven.
In modern architecture, there is a tendency towards complex structures, such as (space) trusses and continuous shells. This stimulates an increasing attention for the optimal design of both the shape and the dimensions of such structures. For truss structures, a more economic design is achieved by minimizing the volume while constraining the stress and the displacements. The truss size optimization is rather fast, as the derivatives can be computed by adjoint techniques. For the combination of shape and size optimization, a double loop is adopted, as there are optimal bar sizes for every shape. Using gradient-based methods for the outer shape optimization loop is therefore not trivial. The use of global optimization methods is considered. For shell structures, the strain energy is minimized with the stress and displacements constrained. However, the real construction can deviate from the model used in optimization due to geometric imperfections or a change in the surroundings of the construction. To avoid unexpected failure, optimization must take these uncertainties into account. Stochastic constraints are therefore added to the optimization. This is especially important for shell structures, as the sensitivity of these structures to buckling is influenced unfavourably by small imperfections.
Two OPTEC professors have been awarded three "Gouden Krijtjes", the yearly teaching awards given by the organization of engineering students (vtk). Prof. Lombaert was awarded the prize for the best course in civil engineering, and Prof. Diehl the prizes for the best professor and the best course in mathematical engineering (where he teaches numerical optimization). They received these awards at the yearly "proffentap" where experienced students taught them how to draft beer professionally.
