Design of variable stiffness composites for maximum fundamental frequency considering manufacturing constraints of tow steering

In this study, an in-house finite element approach is developed to optimize fundamental frequency of variable stiffness composites considering manufacturing constraints tow steering process. The method uses the lamination parameters as design variables. Tow angles or fiber and their stacking sequence are computed from optimum by direct search method. Least-Squares Continuity (LSC) applied maintain continuity within a prescribed curvature limit for manufacturability. Finally discrete directions were converted into paths using stream functions have continuous manufacturable paths. results compared various literature findings constant, balanced variable, general designs different boundary conditions, aspect ratios, material properties. parameter distributions in good agreement with findings. improvements up 11.9% 10.2% LSC respect constant fully simply-supported clamped cases, respectively.