Abstract
In this paper, we present a numerical analysis method for in-plane shape optimization of plate and shell structures subjected to a von Mises strength criterion. The weight minimization problem is formulated as a non-parametric shape optimization problem using the Lagrangian approach and the material derivative method. The shape gradient function and the optimality conditions are theoretically derived for this problem. The traction method is applied to determine the smooth in-plane domain variation that minimizes the objective functional. This method is applied to simple shell examples and practical automotive chassis components to verify the effectiveness and practical utility for weight reduction of plate and shell structures subjected to the strength criterion.
