Optimization and Blending of Composite Laminates Using Genetic Algorithms with Migration

Abstract

Optimization of aircraft-stiffened composite panel structures often results in manufacturing incompatibilities between adjacent panels. Using genetic algorithms to optimize local panel stacking sequences allows panel populations of stacking sequences to evolve in parallel and send migrants to adjacent panels so as to blend the local panel designs globally. The blending process is accomplished using the edit distance between individuals of a population and the set of migrants from adjacent panels. The objective function evaluating the fitness of designs is modified according the severity of mismatches detected between neighboring populations. This lays the groundwork for natural evolution to a blended global solution without leaving the paradigm of genetic algorithms.