A MODEL FOR THE OPTIMUM DESIGN OF THIN LAMINATED PLATE-SHELL STRUCTURES FOR STATIC, DYNAMIC AND BUCKLING BEHAVIOR

This paper presents a discrete model for the sensitivity analysis and optimization of thin, multi-layered, angle-ply composite structures. The model is based on a plate-shell element with 18 degrees of freedom, using the discrete Kirchhoff theory for the bending effects. Angle-ply design variables and vectorial distances from the middle surface to the upper surface of each layer (indirectly, the thickness) are considered as design variables. Different objectives and constraints can be used as a specified displacement or the structure elastic strain energy or the volume of structural material or a chosen natural frequency or buckling load parameter. The design sensitivities are evaluated analytically. The efficiency and accuracy of the model developed is discussed with reference to several applications.