Sensitivity analysis and optimization for non-linear structural response

The present contribution deals with the sensitivity analysis and optimizati on of structures for path-dependent stuructural response. Geometrically as well as materially non-linear behavior behavior with hardening and softenin g is taken into account. Prandtl-Reuss-plasticity is adopted so that not on ly the stale variables but also their sensitivities are path-dependent. Bec ause of this rite variational direct approach is preffered for the sensitiv ity analysis. For accuracy reasons tile sensitivity analysis has to be cons istent with the analysis method evaluating the structural response. The pro posed sensitivity analysis as well as its application in structural optimiz ation is demonstrated by several examples.