Plato is Sandia’s optimization-based design code, solving PDE-constrained topology and shape design problems by means of adjoint methods for gradient-based optimization. This infrastructure requires tight coupling with physics codes; in addition to Plato’s open-source physics code (Plato Analyze), Plato can be used with a growing list of internal Sandia physics codes, and is distributed with Sierra. Plato enables users to optimize quantities of interest computed in the physics codes via the formulation of a mathematical optimization problem, orchestrating the necessary workflow to compose function evaluations across software packages for geometry, meshing, and physics simulation.
In addition to being a platform for shape and topology optimization, Plato also facilitates ongoing research, e.g., design of lattices, optimization under uncertainty, and dynamic objectives. Our core applications have traditionally been found in compliance minimization, stress-constrained mass minimization, and the design of brackets, mocks, and fixtures.
For user support, please send an email to sierra-help@sandia.gov.