Author(s)

C.A.C. Antonio, A.V. Soeiro & A.T. Marques

Abstract

Optimization in reliability based design of laminated composite structures C.A.C. Antonio, A.V. Soeiro. A.T. Marques Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto, Rua dos Bragas, 4099 Porto Codex, Portugal ABSTRACT Design of laminated composite structures is made using rules based on service stresses criteria. The replacement of these criteria by guidelines supported by failure modes rules will contribute to a more accurate design. This design enhancement is performed at the element and at the system levels. To apply the reliability theory it was necessary to perform a statistical analysis of test results concerning relevant material properties. The optimization of the structure weight was performed using a two levels method. The types of structures studied were plates and shells using the layers angles and the layers thicknesses as design variables. Besides the safety constraints, based on material properties randomness, upper limits were imposed on global displacements.

Keywords