Maximizing Buckling Strength of Perforated Composite Laminates by Optimizing Fiber Orientation Using Genetic Algorithm

This paper demonstrates ability to significantly increase buckling loads of perforated composite laminated plates by synergizing FEM and a genetic optimization algorithm (GA). Plate geometry is discretized into specially-developed 3D degenerated eight-node shell isoparametric layered composite elements. General shell theory, involving incremental nonlinear finite element equilibrium equation, is employed. Fiber orientation within individual plies of each element is controlled independently by the genetic algorithm. Eigen buckling analysis is performed using the subspace iteration method. Available results demonstrate the approach is superior to more conventional methodologies such as modifying ply thickness or the stacking sequence of individual rectilinear plies having common fiber orientation through the plate.