Optimization of hybrid laminated composites using a genetic algorithm

This work aims at developing a genetic algorithm (GA) to pursue the optimization of hybrid laminated composite structures. Fiber orientation (predefined ply angles), material (glass-epoxy or carbon-epoxy layer) and total number of plies are considered as design variables. The GA is chosen as an optimization tool because of its ability to deal with non-convex, multimodal and discrete optimization problems, of which the design of laminated composites is an example. First, the developed algorithm is detailed explained and validated by comparing its results to other obtained from the literature. T...