Shape optimization can be used to deform an existing geometry to improve its performance, see Theory for Shape Optimization. The technique works by deforming the mesh, so the mesh quality will often decrease, and this effect is normally what limits the magnitude of the shape deformation. Ultimately, the elements can become inverted, and if this happens, the error message in
Figure 3-1 is typically displayed. The following is a list of the shape optimization features
The Free Shape Boundary,
Free Shape Boundary,
Free Shape Shell, and
Polynomial Shell features set up control variables for all dimensions, so a point on a boundary associated with one of these features can move within a box with side lengths equal to double the
Maximum displacement dmax. The features are thus free to move the boundaries in the tangential directions.
It is only possible to add Free Shape Boundary or
Free Shape Boundary features on the boundary of
Free Shape Domain features, because these control the smoothing of domain meshes. The behavior of the features can be modified using the
Symmetry/Roller,
Fixed Point,
Fixed Edge and
Fixed Boundary features. All of the shape optimization features can be added via the graphics context menu.