A 3D boundary element optimization approach based on genetic algorithms and surface modeling

The optimization of three dimensional shapes is one of the most common problems addressed in engineering. This work concerns the use of genetic algorithms (GAs) and b-spline-surface modeling for the optimization of boundary element models. The paper summarizes the genetic optimization process. The model boundary is discretized by using the Boundary Element Method (BEM), and selected parts of the boundary are modeled by using b-spline surfaces, in order to allow an easy re-meshing and adaptation of the boundary to external actions. Two numerical examples are presented and discussed in detail, showing that the proposed technique is able to optimize the shape of domains requiring a minimum of computational effort. The reduction in the model volume is significant, without violating the restrictions imposed on the model. q 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.