Simultaneous Shape and Stacking Sequence Optimization of Laminated Composite Free-Form Shells Using Multi-Island Genetic Algorithm

Abstract

A simultaneous shape and stacking sequence optimization algorithm is presented for laminated composite free-form shells, by which the coupled effect of shape and stacking sequence can be considered. *e optimization objective is determined as maximizing fundamental natural frequency to obtain largest stiffness of shells. Nonuniform rational B-spline (NURBS) is employed to represent free-form geometrical shapes. *e coordinates of NURBS control points and fiber orientations are set up as continuous and discrete optimization variables, respectively, and optimized simultaneously. To improve the efficiency of the mixed continuous-discrete optimization, multi-island genetic algorithm (MIGA) is employed to search for the global result. *rough several numerical examples, the performance of the proposed approach is demonstrated in comparison with the twophase optimization method; the effect of boundary conditions and the setup of control points on optimal results are investigated, respectively.