Advanced robust design optimization of FRP sandwich floor panels

Abstract

FRP composite is now being used in the construction of main structural elements, such as the FRP sandwich panel for flooring system and bridges. The objective of this research is to use multi-objective optimization and robust design techniques to minimize the weight of the FRP sandwich floor panel design as well as maximizing the natural frequency. An Australian manufactures has invented a new FRP composite panel suitable for civil engineering constructions. This research work aims to develop an optimal design of structural fibre composite sandwich floor panel by coupling a Finite Element FE and robust design optimization method. The design variables are the skin plies thickness and the core thickness as a robust variable. Results indicate that there is a trade-off between the objectives. The robust design technique is used then to select a set of candidate geometry, which has a high natural frequency, low weight and low standard deviation. The design simulation was formulated by depending on the EUROCOMP standard design constraints.