Efficient sensitivity analysis and optimization of shell structures by the ABAQUS code

In this paper, a new efficient sensitivity analysis procedure is presented for the optimization of shell structures without access to the finite element source code. It is devised as a general interface tool to extend existing finite element systems from pure structural analysis to design capability. The implementation is performed based on the ABAQUS code. Kirchhoff flat shell elements are taken into account in the study with the element thickness as design variables. To ensure the performance and the validity of the proposed procedure, satisfactory sensitivity and optimization results are illustrated for numerical examples.