Structural optimization system based on MSC. PATRAN/NASTRAN

Self-developed structural optimization software has the low abilities of man-machine interface and structural analysis. A structural optimization software system is constructed through PCL(PATRAN Command Language) on the base of commercial FEM software MSC. PATRAN/NASTRAN. In the new system NASTRAN performs the structural analyses and design sensitivity analysis, and a self-developed coding two-level multi-point approximation method is used for the optimization calculation, Moreover, special functions and corresponding interface for structural optimization of spacecraft are developed, which greatly expanded the capabilities of primal PATRAN/NASTRAN system. The application results of typical examples and practical engineering problem show that the developed system is effective in calculation, convenient in usage, and suitable to be applied in the structural optimization of spacecraft.