Optimal Multifactor Design Procedure for Sandwich Panels

Recent developments in optimal design procedures now make it possible to optimize large numbers of design objectives. The basis of this procedure is a generalized, multivariable optimization criteria that essentially attempts to compromise design objectives and is capable of handling any additional inequality constraints. Variations of the procedure depend only on the imagination and resourcefulness of the designer. The current program specifically designs a three-layered composite sandwich by selecting the materials from a data bank of discrete material properties. The final design represents a compromise between maximum bending stiffness, i.e., an index of bucking resistance, and moment capacity, minimum cost and weight, a number of inequality constraints involving streses and deflections, heat transmission and resonant sound frequencies. The importance of each design objective is determined by the designer in setting up the so-called ranking matrix. Alternate designs can be quickly evaluated for changes in ranking values, constraints, design loads, material properties, etc.