Nonlinear multi-variable optimization of layered composites with nontraditional interfaces

This article deals with a nonlinear multi-variable optimization problem to minimize the critical thermal stress induced in a layered composite plate. The numerical model is solved by using the finite element analysis while the optimization is done by applying the particle swarm optimization technique. The plate contains nontraditional interfaces between the layers while their profiles follow a power law. Different parameters are optimized either individually or in combination by applying single and multi-variable optimizations so as to minimize the critical induced thermal stress in the structure. These optimized parameters include the interface profile parameter, the height of the nontraditional interface on the right surface relative to the mid-surface, and the thicknesses of the layers of the plate. It is found that the critical stress can be minimized greatly when tailoring the geometrical and interface parameters by using their optimum values.