Initial sizing optimisation of anisotropic composite panels with T-shape stiffeners

J. Enrique Herencia, Paul M. Weaver, Michael I. Friswell

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

This paper provides an approach to perform initial sizing optimisation of anisotropic composite panels with T-shape stiffeners. The method divides the optimisation problem into two levels. At the first level, composite optimisation is performed using Mathematical Programming (MP), where the skin and the stiffeners are modelled using lamination parameters accounting for their anisotropy. Skin and stiffener laminates are assumed to be symmetric, or mid-plane symmetric laminates with 0, 90, 45, or -45 degree ply angles. The stiffened panel is subjected to a combined loading under strength, buckling and practical design constraints. Buckling constraints are computed using Closed Form (CF) solutions and energy methods (Rayleigh-Ritz). Conservatism is partially removed in the buckling analysis considering the skin-stiffener flange interaction and decreasing the effective width of the skin. Furthermore, the design and manufacture of the stiffener is embedded within the design variables. At the second level, the actual skin and stiffener lay-ups are obtained using Genetic Algorithms (GAs), accounting for manufacturability and design practices. This two level approach permits the separation of the analysis (strength, buckling, etc), which is performed at the first level, from the laminate stacking sequence combinatorial problem, which is dealt efficiently with GAs at the second level.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationSociety of Allied Weight Engineers - 66th Annual International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering 2007
Pages31-61
Number of pages31
Publication statusPublished - 2007
Externally publishedYes
Event66th Annual International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering 2007 - Madrid, Spain
Duration: 26 May 200731 May 2007

Publication series

NameSociety of Allied Weight Engineers - 66th Annual International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering 2007

Conference

Conference66th Annual International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering 2007
Country/TerritorySpain
CityMadrid
Period26/05/0731/05/07

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