Topology optimization applied to the design of a dual-mode filter including a dielectric resonator

The finite element method is coupled with the topology gradient method for optimizing the shape of microwave components using a numerical model. The approach, which consists in minimizing a cost function with respect to the physical property of individual topological elements, is first described. Regarding given electrical specifications, the technique is applied for optimizing the distribution of dielectric material in 3D in order to improve the behavior of a classical dual-mode filter including a dielectric resonator.