Multi-model optimization for various disciplines using the equivalent static loads method

The equivalent static loads method (ESLM) is a structural optimization method that can consider nonlinear and dynamic responses. ESLM can cover linear dynamic, nonlinear static, and nonlinear dynamic problems. Many studies have been carried out to use ESLM in various structural optimization disciplines such as size, shape, and topology optimizations. The limit of the existing ESLM is that only one finite element model can be considered. The multi-model optimization (MMO) technique is known as an optimization method that handles plural finite element models simultaneously. A study is conducted to expand the current ESLM to multi-model optimization. Each model could be involved in several types of analysis that generate linear/nonlinear and static/dynamic responses. However, the optimization process uses only linear static response models generated by ESLM and multiple linear static response models are utilized for multi-model optimization simultaneously. The proposed method is applied to size and topology optimization examples, and the performance of the method is discussed.