Shape optimization of conductive-media interfaces using an IGA-BEM solver

In this paper, we present a method that combines the Boundary Element Method (BEM) with IsoGeometric Analysis (IGA) for numerically solving the system of Boundary Integral Equations (BIE) arising in the context of a 2-D steady-state heat conduction problem across a periodic interface separating two conducting and conforming media. Our approach leads to a fast solver with high convergence rate when compared with low-order BEM. Additionally, an optimization framework comprising a parametric model for the interface’s shape, our IGA-BEM solver, and evolutionary and gradient-based optimization algorithms is developed and tested. The optimization examples demonstrate the efficiency of the framework in generating optimum interfaces for maximizing heat transfer under various geometric constraints.