Analytical shape sensitivity computation using hybrid finite elements

This paper presents an algorithm for the determination of analytical shape sensitivities using hybrid finite elements. Based on the modified Hellinger -Reissner principle, expressions for analytical shape sensitivity are deriv ed explicitly and the same have been implemented using a hybrid scheme of n umerical and symbolic computation. Presented in a two dimensional, linear e lastic context, the derivations are expected to yield better displacement a nd stress derivatives. Illustrations are given to demonstrate the applicabi lity of the proposed approach and the results are verified with convergent finite difference values. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserve d.