Optimal design of laminates for maximum buckling resistance and minimum weight

In this paper, a multi-objective optimal design for uniaxially loaded lamin ated composite panels is presented. Three design variables are adopted, nam ely number of layers, ply-thickness, and ply orientation angle. The two des ign objectives are to maximize buckling resistance and to minimize weight o f the composite laminates. These two design objectives are assigned with di fferent design level requirements, owing to different relative importance i n practice. The fuzzy-optimization approach is engaged in such a case. Henc e, a set of compromise solutions for the fuzzy-controlled multi-objective o ptimization can be obtained. The designer can thus select the preferred des ign level and obtain the optimal solution. In the complete design scheme, t he composite laminates are analyzed by the refined finite strip analysis. T his approach can deal with the instability of slender composite laminates e ffectively.