Stacking sequence optimization of composite panels for blending characteristics using lamination parameters

Stacking sequence optimization of laminated composite structures to satisfy ply continuity (blending) requirements has recently attracted considerable attention. In this paper, lamination parameter-based method is examined for finding the best stacking sequence of laminated composite wing structures with blending and manufacturing constraints. The optimization procedure is to use lamination parameters and numbers of plies of the pre-defined angles (0, 90, 45 and -45 degrees) as design variables with buckling, strength and ply percentage constraints while minimizing the material volume in the top level optimization run. Based on the previous research by the authors, two new criteria, stack homogeneity index andply angle jump index, are implemented to define a single objective function. This objective function is minimized to achieve the best stacking sequence of laminate composite wing structures in the local level optimization with the consideration of blending requirements. The results of the application of this approach are compared to published results to demonstrate the potential of the developed technique.