Three dimensional optimization using voxel-based finite element method with homogenization

Abstract

In parameter optimization using the finite element method (FEM), re-meshing with long computational time must be performed many times. Although voxel-based FEM is one of the effective techniques to avoid the re-meshing, it has less accuracy in comparison with the conventional FEM because of stair-shaped boundaries. In this work, to improve the computational accuracy in the voxel-based FEM, a new homogenization method is presented. In the present method, the effective reluctivity of finite elements at material interfaces is determined on the basis of magnetic circuit. The present method is successfully applied to three dimensional shape optimization of an inductor model.