Due to their high load carrying capacity, the adoption of composite materials throughout the industry is spreading at an ever faster pace. They are constructed primarily out of a binding matrix and fiber reinforcements. By stacking consecutive layers of a fiber-matrix mixture on top of each other, we are left with a laminated structure, each possessing unique mechanical properties. The properties are influenced by the characteristics of the matrix and fibers themselves, their thickness, distribution, orientation, stacking sequence etc. It is generally assumed that a single layer exhibits orthotropic properties, whilst the laminate is considered anisotropic.
The scope of the thesis features an examination of the classical lamination theory, focused on the theoretical prediction of elastic properties of composite plies. The theoretical models are then implemented into a finite element formulation based on the Kirchoff -Love theory of elastic plates. After that an optimization study is performed, using an optimization algorithm developed by the author, whereby the objective is to maximize the overall stiffness of the structure. As a practical case study a full composite optimization procedure is conducted on a composite chassis, used in the formula student competition.
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