A strength-based multiple cutout optimization in composite plates using fixed grid finite element method

The design of interior cutouts in laminated composite panels is of great importance in aerospace, automobile and structural engineering. Based on the Tsai–Hill failure criterion of the first ply, this paper presents a newly developed Fixed (FG) Grid Evolutionary Structural Optimization (ESO) method to explore shape optimization of multiple cutouts in composite structures. Different design cases with varying number of cutouts, ply orientations and lay-up configurations are taken into account in this study. The examples demonstrate that the optimal boundaries produced by FG ESO are much smoother than those by traditional ESO. The results show the remarkable effects of different opening numbers and various lay-up configurations on resulting optimal shapes. The paper also provides an in-depth observation in the interactive influence of the adjacent cutouts on the optimal shapes. 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.