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2D topology optimization

We tried topology optimization in 2D. In the following tutorial, PSHELL elemets are used. Why is the element type used? I think plane strain element is standard but it cannot be chosed. Thank youThank you.

OS-T: 2000 Design Concept for a Structural C-Clip

https://2022.help.altair.com/2022.3/hwsolvers/os/topics/solvers/os/design_reference_for_structural_c_clip_r.htm#design_reference_for_structural_c_clip_r

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Adriano_Koga

2D/3D shell is the "standard" for OptiStruct, and most of the applications use this kind of shell.

Could you clarify what is your target?

I've never tried optimization in a plane strain element, so i can't tell for sure if it is supported.

ikumu

Thank you for your answer.

A shell element is a structural element, not a solid element. As far as I know, topology optimization has been primarily developed for solid mechanics. What is the reason for using shell elements in Optistruct?

loistf

Hi @ikumu

Check this article out, i believe it can be illustrative, specially the a380 ribs. Shell elements, and the usefulness/applicability of topology optimization is shown, i believe.

https://altair.com/blog/articles/Analysis-Origins-OptiStruct

ikumu

Thank you for introducing such an interesting article. As far as I know, Prof. Kikuchi's group used solid elements in 2D. I presume that shell elements are used as plane stress elements in OptiStruct.

loistf

I haven't seen many interesting cases in plane strain topology optimization, to be honest. Most practical cases are either with shell elements (plane stress, like the a380 ribs, I assume) or with 3d solid elements (hexa, tetra). Hopefully this helps.

ikumu

Thank you very much. I understand that shell elements are used as plane stress elements in 2D topology optimization.