This work describes the development of a structural optimization framework adept at accommodating diverse customer\nrequirements. The purpose is to provide a framework accessible to the optimization research analyst. The framework integrates\nthe method of moving asymptotes into the finite element analysis program (FEAP) by exploiting the direct interface capability\nin FEAP. Analytic sensitivities are incorporated to provide a robust and efficient optimization search. User macros are developed\nto interface the design algorithm and analytic sensitivity with the finite element analysis program. To test the optimization tool\nand sensitivity calculations, three sizing and one topology optimization problems are considered. In addition, flutter analysis of a\nheated panel is analyzed as an example of coupling to nonstructural discipline. In sizing optimization, the calculated semianalytic\nsensitivities match analytic and finite difference calculations. Differences between analytic designs and numerical ones are less\nthan 2.0% and are attributed to discrete nature of finite elements. In the topology problem, quadratic elements are found robust at\nresolving checkerboard patterns.
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