Methods for improving the computational performance of sequentially linear analsysis

The numerical simulation of brittle failure with nonlinear finite element analysis (NLFEA) remains a challenge due to robustness issues. These problems are attributed to the softening material behaviour and the iterative nature of the Newton-Raphson type methods used in NLFEA. However, robust numerical simulations become increasingly important,...

Application of Lagrangian Coherent Structures to the computation and understanding of ballistic capture trajectories

Ballistic capture is a transfer method which was first applied in 1990. It allows a spacecraft to approach a target celestial body and enter a (temporary) orbit around it without requiring manoeuvres in between. Ballistic capture is a promising concept, as it is expected to be safer, cheaper, and more flexible in terms of launch windows than a...

Applying Deflation Methods in a Topology Optimization Procedure

Structure Optimization has been an important subject with many applications for centuries. In the last sixty years, numerical optimization has facilitated large advancements in this field. One of the areas in Structure Optimization is Topology Optimization, which is used for Additive Manufacturing purposes. In this thesis we explore Static and...