Approximation and numerical realization of an optimal design welding problem

In this article, we deal with the approximation of an optimal shape design approach for a free boundary problem modeling a welding process. We consider discretization of this problem based on linear finite elements. We prove the existence of discrete optimal solutions. This allows us to show the convergence result of a sequence of discrete solutions to the continuous one. Finally, methods for numerical realization are described and several examples have been carried out to illustrate the efficiency of the proposed approach. (C) 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.