An object-oriented structural optimization program

In this paper, implementation concepts of a structural optimization softwar e using object-oriented programming (OOP) in CS ++ is presented. A brief ma thematical formulation of structural optimization and continuum-based sensi tivity analysis is presented. The requirements of a computational optimizat ion environment are derived from this formulation. The OOP characteristics are analysed and this paradigm is employed in the implementation of design variables, structural performance functionals, velocity fields, design mode l and mathematical programming algorithms using CI-Jr. Finally, the program obtained is applied to 2D linear elastic examples of sizing and shape opti mization.