*RESTART for aeroelastic analysis

Model setup
1

Hi all, I’m trying to set up a nonlinear optimization with CalculiX and a custom aerodynamic solver. In the optimization loop, because stiffness is dependent on deformation, I have to do the following loop:

  1. Run aero
  2. Apply pressures to FEM
  3. Apply deformation to aero mesh and rerun
  4. Apply new pressures to previously deformed FEM
  5. Repeat till convergence in deformation.

My question is regarding step 4. Does writing out the state at step 2 using *RESTART and using that state in step 4 with new aero loads accomplish my goal of starting the FEA at the previously deformed state? If not, what’s the best way to approach this?

2

In theory yes, you could do that. However, there are other solvers better suited for this type of analysis: MDO Lab Software

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3

I have tried TACS for structural optimization, however it doesn’t have a fully nonlinear beam model like calculix from what I understand.

4

Restart allows you to continue an analysis, but keep in mind that (unlike with the import technique, available only in Abaqus) you can’t change anything in the finite element model used for the analysis; you can only add new steps with new loads/BCs.

Maybe you could try preCICE. It can couple CalculiX with OpenFOAM for FSI.

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