Thanks to the huge progress made in the past decades in mechanical modeling, digital analysis and most of all, computer power; it is now relativly easy to design a structure (i.e. bridge, airplane wing, car chassis, etc.) using computer simulation and calculation. However, during the design of a new structure, it is often necessary to try various ideas and modify them to improve them. This task may be extremely tedious if it is entirely manual and relies on the designer's intuition alone. This is why it is necessary to propose automatic structure optimization methods.

The aim of this course is to lay the fundations of mathematics models and digital algorithms for optimal design of structure. In particular, the optimization of the shape of structures in view will be studied, for example, weight minimization under minimum mechanical strength constraints. We will illustrate the course using structural optimization softwares in PC.

 

Required level: The course will begin with an overview of the required mathematics education. Therefore it is strongly recommended to have followed MAP431. To have followed MAP435 is an asset but not mandatory.
Evaluation modalities: Continous control (project/FreeFem++ script to submit each week), no final exam
This course will be taught in English
Numerus Clausus : 30