Optimization of laminated composite structure considering uncertainty effects

In this paper, the most conservative Tsai–Wu failure envelopes are obtained for laminated composite considering material as well as ply angle uncertainty. The uncertainty analysis is performed using Monte Carlo simulation (MCS). The obtained failure envelopes are then used as the constraint functions to perform the minimum weight design optimization problem using particle swarm optimization (PSO). Results show increase in weight of the laminate from the deterministic results and it varies from 4% to 50% depending upon the stacking sequence and loading condition. Substantial effects of uncertainty on the failure envelope and optimal design are quantified.