Topological Layout and Reinforcement Optimization of Plate Structures

In this chapter the homogenization method for plane stress problems is extended to deal with the creation of optimal layout and reinforcement topologies of plate structures. In this formulation the problem is to determine the stiffest plate strueture with a volume constraint for the reinforcement material. Introducing plate microcell models, a formulation for homogenization of plates based on the first order thick plate theory is presented. To solve the optimization problem the optimality criteria method is used. Using different material models some examples are provided.