Design using Genetic Algorithms -- Some Results for Composite Material Structures

This paper reviews an approach to design using Genetic Algorithms as applied to the domain of composite material structures. We first discuss the concept of a Genetic Algorithm (GA) and the role it can play in design, namely as an evolutionary search optimizer based on simulation results. We then discuss the composite structure design problem and how GA’s can be used for design in this domain. Finally we discuss various experiments we have conducted and our results in using GA’s for the design of energy absorbing composite material structures, including: 2D beam design, 3D beam design, use of distributed processing to increase efficiency and accuracy of GA’s in design, and inclusion of manufacturability constraints in automated design. Submitted to IEEE Expert, Aug 1994. Pending.