Optimal design of symmetrically laminated plates for maximum buckling temperature

Abstract

The optimal designs of laminated plates subject to nonuniform temperature distributions are givenfor maximum bucklingtemperature. The method ofsolution involves the finite element method based on Mindlin plate theory and numerical optimization: A computational approach is developed that involves successive stages of solution for temperature distribution, buckling temperature, and optimalfiber angle. Three different temperature loadingsare consideredand various combinations of simply supported and clamped boundary conditionsare studied. The effectofplate aspectratioon the optimal fiber angle and the maximum buckling temperature is investigated. The influence of bending-twisting coupling on the optimum design is studied by considering plates with an increasing number of layers.