Premium
A Genetic Algorithm–Based System for the Optimal Design of Laminates
Author(s) -
Savic Dragan A.,
Evans Ken E.,
Silberhorn Thorsten
Publication year - 1999
Publication title -
computer‐aided civil and infrastructure engineering
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.773
H-Index - 82
eISSN - 1467-8667
pISSN - 1093-9687
DOI - 10.1111/0885-9507.00140
Subject(s) - composite laminates , isotropy , stiffness , flexural strength , optimal design , genetic algorithm , stacking , mathematical optimization , convergence (economics) , computer science , algorithm , minimum weight , structural engineering , mathematics , composite number , engineering , physics , economics , economic growth , quantum mechanics , nuclear magnetic resonance , machine learning
A new software tool, GACOMP, for the optimal design of general and symmetric/balanced laminates (or sandwich panels) with specified mechanical properties has been developed. The approach taken relies on the analysis of a given laminate, of known materials and stacking sequence, and on an efficient genetic algorithm–based optimization procedure to come up with the best design with respect to single or multiple objectives and constraints. Required engineering constants or their ratios, weight, strength, anisotropy, isotropy, or twist, considered individually or in any combination, can be used as optimization objectives. Several improvements to the genetic algorithms were introduced to provide faster convergence and the ability to identify multiple optima in a single run. Two practical examples are presented to show the effective performance of GACOMP. The first tackles the design of a composite laminate with specified in‐plane and flexural engineering constants, while the second deals with the design of a laminate with specified stiffness ratios, minimum twisting under the load considered, and maximum strength.