Taught by Benjamín Ivorra

The Optimization Module is used to, once a COMSOL Multiphysics model of our product or process has been created, improve its design. This involves four steps. First, defining the objective function, which describes the feature we intend to optimize in our system. Second, establishing a set of design variables: the model inputs that we can modify to achieve this optimization defined by the objective function. Third, specifying a set of constraints, such as limitations on the design variables or operational conditions that must be met. Finally, using the tools of the Optimization Module to obtain the optimized version of the model, with the optimal design variables that satisfy the imposed constraints.

The Optimization Module is a very general tool that allows us to define objective functions, specify design variables and configure constraints. Any model input, whether geometric dimensions, part shapes, physical properties of materials or spatial distribution of materials, can be treated as a design variable, and any model output can be used to define the objective function. It can be used in conjunction with any set of physical interfaces available in COMSOL Multiphysics and its Add-on Modules. In addition, if necessary, any particular optimization algorithm developed by the user can also be incorporated into a COMSOL Multiphysics model to perform this task.

This course develops the theoretical foundations corresponding to optimization problems and sensitivity analysis of variables, always from the point of view of their implementation in the main COMSOL Multiphysics platform. We will explain and use, with multiple practical examples, all the existing physical optimization interfaces in different cases: geometric, material properties, topological and parameter estimation optimization.