A general concept for design modification of shell meshes in structural-acoustic optimization - Part I: formulation of the concept

This paper addresses a particular problem that occurs in the structural-acoustic optimization of finite element shells models. After a brief review of approaches and techniques in structural-acoustic optimization, advantages and disadvantages of geometry based models are discussed. It proves that geometry based models account for a general and reasonable type of model preparation for modification and optimization purposes. However, an alternative concept becomes necessary if detailed meshes of thin shell structures shall be analyzed, modified and optimized with respect to acoustic characteristics. The paper will discuss a number of reasons for the requirement of such a concept. This concept consists of defining modification domains, then defining global and several local modification functions in each domain. These global and local modification functions should possess certain properties and can be controlled by variables. Finally, an example is presented and discussed for these types of modification functions. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.