Membrane deformation – Finite elements – Parametric shape optimization on the Koch snowflake
Nizar Riane
Université Mohammed V de Rabat, MoroccoClaire David
Sorbonne Université, CNRS, UMR 7598, Paris, FranceFrançois Vigneron
Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, CNRS, UMR 9008, France

Abstract
In this article, we introduce the finite element method to analyze a membrane with a Koch snowflake-shaped boundary. The fractal nature of this domain presents unique challenges due to its intricate boundary structure. Our approach involves discretizing the domain, estimating the error, and proving convergence. With these aspects addressed, we solve a shape optimization problem to determine the optimal thickness of the membrane. These findings provide valuable insights into how fractal boundaries affect structural performance and optimization.
Cite this article
Nizar Riane, Claire David, François Vigneron, Membrane deformation – Finite elements – Parametric shape optimization on the Koch snowflake. J. Fractal Geom. (2026), published online first
DOI 10.4171/JFG/197