Topology optimization of subsea thermoelastic problems

Abstract

Offshore structures present substantial challenges to engineering in the analysis, design, and construction stages. The coexistent conditions of underwater currents, extreme temperatures, high pressure, wind loads and seabed soil are complex and make the structural design extremely challenging and usually non-intuitive. Therefore, optimization can play a crucial role in this problem. Topology optimization is one of the most flexible types of design methods, allowing the entire structural layout (unknown a priori) to be optimized considering an objective function and prescribed constraints. However, the applications of topology optimization in offshore structural design has been limited due to the challenges multiphysics interactions impose. This project will develop methods of topology optimization based on binary design variables, which are advantageous for multiphysics applications. The structural boundaries and equilibrium conditions will be described explicitly and the case of fluid-structure interaction will be studied. (AU)