Structural reinforcement layout and sizing optimization of a composite advanced sail

Structural reinforcement layout optimization can be a very useful tool in the preliminary stages of design. In this research, sizing optimization techniques are used to generate results very similar to traditional layout optimization techniques with advantages in composite modeling and available strength and stability responses. Both linear and nonlinear sizing-to-design variable relationships are applied to a composite advanced sail design problem with high and low-complexity finite element models. An alternate methodology based on fractional-factorial-design and response surface modeling is also presented with promising results for finding the globally optimum reinforcement layout design. The stiffener layouts obtained from the different approaches are used to define an improved stiffener layout for sizing optimization for minimum weight. A weight savings of more than 19% is obtained over a baseline model using these methodologies.