Stacking sequence optimization of filament wound composite cylinder using micro-genetic algorithm for underwater applications

Abstract

Recently, composite materials have been considered as the promising materials for the future underwater vehicle structures because of their corrosion resistance, high specific modulus and strength. In the deep underwater application, not only the static failure but the buckling is also a critical factor dominating the structural. Furthermore, the stacking sequences corresponding to the maximum static failure load and the maximum buckling load may be different. Therefore, the optimization of stacking sequence is required which takes into account the buckling and material failure at the same time. In this study, the stacking sequence of filament wound composite cylinder under hydrostatic pressure was optimized using micro-genetic algorithm for underwater vehicle applications. The objective of the optimization was to maximize the design allowable load considering the buckling and static failure loads simultaneously. The design variables are the helical winding angle and hoop layer thickness. The results of examples show that the micro genetic algorithm can be successfully applied to the optimization of filament wound cylinders with various geometries and gives better efficiency than general genetic algorithms.