A non-smooth tour in structural optimization

This talk first gives a general overview of non-smooth convex variational problems, from their formulation to existing solving methods. These concepts are then illustrated on two applications in the field of structural optimization:

• topology optimization of structural load-bearing capacity [1, 2]
• form-finding of funicular shells [3]

References

[1] Mourad, L., Bleyer, J., Mesnil, R., Nseir, J., Sab, K., & Raphael, W. (2021). Topology optimization of load-bearing capacity. Structural and Multidisciplinary Optimization, 64(3), 1367-1383. 10.1007/s00158-021-02923-1

[2] Mourad, L., Bleyer, J., Mesnil, R., Nseir, J., Sab, K., & Raphael, W. (2025). Multi-material topology optimization of structural load-bearing capacity using limit analysis. Journal of Theoretical, Computational and Applied Mechanics. 10.46298/jtcam.12427

[3] Bleyer J., Mesnil R., Douthe C. (2025). Form-finding of funicular shells using geometric stiffness optimization, in preparation.