The Optimization Lab provides a state-of-the-art solver for a broad range of multiphysics optimization problems in combination with COMSOL Multiphysics and its modules. Using the new Optimization interface you can apply optimization methods to your multiphysics designs. Examples include topology optimization and inverse modeling.
The Optimization Lab is based on the SNOPT code developed by Philip E. Gill, UC San Diego, and Walter Murray and Michael A. Saunders, Stanford University.
Application Examples
All examples below are included in the model libraries of COMSOL Multiphysics and its modules.
- Optimizing the thickness profile of a flywheel to obtain a radial stress distribution that is as even as possible
- Finding the optimal distribution of porous material in a microchannel to minimize the flow velocity
- Topology optimization of a loaded knee structure
- Optimizing the shape of a horn with respect to the far-field sound pressure level (requires the Acoustics Module)
- Optimization of a catalytic microreactor in order to maximize the total reaction rate of the solute (requires the Chemical Engineering Module)
- Estimating thermal dispersion in a packed bed using least-squares minimization (requires the Chemical Engineering)
- Determining the spatially variable hydraulic conductivity from a number of aquifer pump tests using inverse modeling (requires the Earth Science Module)
- Optimizing the shape of a dipole antenna (requires the RF Module)
- S-parameter sensitivity analysis and optimization of a 90-degree microwave waveguide bend (requires the RF Module)
- Determining the critical spinning frequency at which a gear and shaft separate using inverse modeling (requires the Structural Mechanics Module)
