Abstract:
The optimal layup with least weight or cost for a symmetrically laminated plate subject
to a buckling load is determined using a hybrid composite construction. A hybrid
construction provides further tailoring capabilities and can meet the weight, cost and
strength constraints while a non-hybrid construction may fail to satisfy the design
requirements. The objective of the optimization is to minimize either the weight or cost
of the plate using the ply angles, layer thicknesses and material combinations as design
variables. As the optimization problem contains a large number of continuous (ply
angles and thicknesses) and discrete (material combinations) design variables, a
-sequential solution procedure is devised in which the optimal variables are computed
in different stages. The proposed design method is illustrated using graphite, kevlar and
glass epoxy combinations and the efficiencies of the hybrid designs over the non-hybrid
ones are computed.
Description:
Originally published in: Engineering Optimization, Vol. 29, Iss: 1-4, 1997.