PARAMETRIC OPTIMIZATION OF COMPOSITE STRUCTURES - APPLICATION TO ALPINE SKIS

This paper describes the implementation of a parametric optimization p rocess in the field of composite structure design. The application con cerns alpine skis. Using a reference ski, the process enables the calc ulation of the optimum shapes for a complete range of skis and checks their behaviour on snow. The objective function is formulated as a lea st-squares problem involving nine static bending flexibilities of the ski, considered as a simply-supported beam on nine predetermined spans . The composite cross-section properties and the longitudinal profile of the structure are taken into account in a parametric geometry appro ach. After the homogenization process, integration of the bending equa tion is carried out using a finite difference approach. The line searc h procedure uses the gradient method and the descent parameter optimiz ation is carried out using an adapted linear approximation. The discus sion of the results highlights the satisfying compromise between preci sion and calculation time. The procedure constitutes an original imple mentation of numerical methods in the area of sports equipment. (C) 19 97 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.