An optimization procedure for maximizing the energy absorption capability of composite shells (Q1324201)

This paper is addressed to the optimum structural design of a layered composite cylindrical shell so as to improve its energy absorption capability by maximizing its buckling and postbuckling characteristics. The composite shell with symmetric orthotropic elastic plies is under axial, static compressive loading. The individual ply stresses of composite shell are analyzed within the framework of classical laminate theory which abrogates the essential features of interactions between the plies. The critical buckling load is derived using a Donnell-type stability analysis for the composite shell with simply supported edge boundary conditions. The post-buckling behavior is evaluated for various values of the load parameter of composite shell. The objective function is defined as the numerically integrated area under the force deflection curve in maximizing the energy absorption capability. The constraint conditions are imposed on the individual ply stresses and the critical buckling load. The mean radius and ply orientations of composite shell are used as design variables. The optimization is performed using the nonlinear programming method of feasible directions. The sensitivity of both geometric and material properties is investigated for the composite shell with several thickness and different types of orthotropic plies. This is a well-written paper that may appeal to both researchers and engineers in the area of structural optimization of shells.