Optimization Module Updates
For users of the Optimization Module, COMSOL Multiphysics® version 5.5 includes a more simplified setup of shape optimization with new built-in features, a filter dataset for smoothing topology optimization results, and strict enforcement of design constraints for derivative-free optimization. Read more about these and other optimization features below.
Shape Optimization
Setting up shape optimization problems is now easier. As of version 5.5, you can select parts of a geometry for shape optimization using the new Free Shape Domain feature. Boundaries to be optimized are specified using Polynomial Boundary or Free Shape Boundary features, which have built-in support for regularization. You can now also perform shape optimization on shells using the new Free Shape Shell feature. The Symmetry/Roller feature specifies points or edges that can slide on a flat boundary. All of the features interact with each other to ensure continuity, and the default plot makes it easy to visualize the result.
Models that use this feature:
- demultiplexer_shape_optimization
- mbb_beam_shape_optimization
- shell_shape_optimization
- tesla_microvalve_shape_optimization
- wrench_shape_optimization
Topology Optimization
The default plot for 3D topology optimization now uses the new Filter dataset, from which you can directly create a mesh part. That way, the optimized geometry can be imported into a new component retaining all selections associated with the topology optimization geometry. This reduces the work needed to set up a verification simulation of a topology optimization result. A new Prescribed Density feature interacts with the Density Model feature, improving the regularization filter behavior near boundaries. This can improve the robustness when creating a mesh part based on the filtered field.
Models that use these features:
Parameter Estimation
When solving a parameter estimation study with the Levenberg–Marquardt method, you can compute the confidence intervals for the parameters based on a user-defined confidence level. The computation of the intervals assume that the measurements are independent and that the error is normally distributed. You could then combine the confidence intervals with synthetic data generation to estimate the required sample size to achieve a certain accuracy for the parameters.
Parameter Optimization
The derivative-free optimization solvers now have an option for strict enforcement of design constraints, improving robustness and reducing computational time. The model will not be evaluated for control parameter sets that violate constraints depending only on the control parameters. The option is enabled by default for COBYLA and Nelder–Mead. You can see this new feature demonstrated in the multistudy_bracket_optimization model.
New Tutorial Models and Applications
Version 5.5 brings several new and updated tutorial models and applications.
Shape Optimization of a Shell
Application Library Title:
shell_shape_optimization
Download from the Application Gallery
Shape Optimization of a Wrench
Application Library Title:
wrench_shape_optimization
Download from the Application Gallery
Shape Optimization of a Tesla Microvalve
Application Library Title:
tesla_microvalve_shape_optimization
Optimization of an Extruded MBB Beam
Application Library Title:
mbb_beam_extruded_optimization
Optimization Tutorials
Application Library Title:
optimization_tutorials
Maximizing the Buckling Load of a Diagonal Brace
Application Library Title:
diagonal_brace_buckling_optimization
Parameter, Shape, and Topology Optimization of a Beam
Application Library Title:
beam_optimization
Impedance Tube Parameter Estimation with Data Generation
Application Library Title:
impedance_tube_parameter_estimation_data
Shape Optimization of an Acoustic Demultiplexer
Application Library Title:
demultiplexer_shape_optimization
Bracket — Topology Optimization
Application Library Title:
bracket_topology_optimization_stl
Download from the Application Gallery