An Uncoupled Approach to Shape and Laminate Optimization of FRP Membrane and Shell Structures

The fiber dominated stiffness and strength properties of fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites make them most effective when used under global in-plane stress demands in shape-resistant structures such as membranes and shells. A two level uncoupled approach for the shape and laminate optimization of FRP shell structures was developed where shape and laminate-property optimization is followed by laminate design optimization of free-form shells for maximum structural stiffness. The approach was evaluated through the solution of optimized laminated FRP shell structures. Results show that the approach is dependable and provides a useful tool for designing optimized laminated free-form FRP structures.