Design optimization of slender elastic beam with initial twist using genetic algorithms and finite element analysis

This paper aims to obtain the optimal composite slender beam design for a rotor blade. The cross-sectional dimensions are considered as design variables. The objective is to optimize the box beam to attain a target matrix of stiffness values and maximum elastic coupling. The optimization process is performed using a genetic algorithm (GA), associated with a variational asymptotic method for the structural analysis. The stiffness control of arbitrary, complex section under some design condition is performed in composite beam where the geometrically nonlinear characteristic of the structure is considered. The objective function is defined as the weight, strength and fatigue life. The laminate thicknesses are to be determined optimally by defining a design index comprising a weighted average of the objective functions and determining the minimum.