A robustness-based design strategy for composite structures – probabilistic approach
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to present the probabilistic approach to a new robustness-based design strategy for thin-walled composite structures in post-buckling.
Design/methodology/approach
Because inherent uncertainties in geometry, material properties, ply orientation and thickness affect the structural performance and robustness, these variations are taken into account.
Findings
The methodology is demonstrated for the sake of simplicity with an unstiffened composite plate under compressive loading, and the probabilistic and deterministic results are compared. In this context, the structural energy and uncertainties are employed to investigate the robustness and reliability of thin-walled composite structures in post-buckling.
Practical implications
As practical implication, the methodology can be extended to stiffened shells, widely used in aerospace design with the aim to satisfy weight, strength and robustness requirements. Moreover, a new argument is strengthened to accept the collapse close to ultimate load once robustness is ensured with a required reliability.
Originality/value
This innovative strategy embedded in a probabilistic framework might lead to a different design selection when compared to a deterministic approach, or an approach that only accounts for the ultimate load. Moreover, robustness measures are redefined in the context of a probabilistic design.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The first author acknowledges CNPq (Brazilian National Council for Scientific and Technological Development) by granting the scholarship, Embraer S.A. for support and assistance and DLR (German Aerospace Center) for funding the research. The information in this paper is provided and no warranty is given that the information is fit for any particular purpose. The reader thereof uses the information at his sole risk and liability.
Citation
Ribeiro Soares da Cunha, F., Wille, T., Degenhardt, R., Sinapius, M., Célio de Araújo, F. and Zimmermann, R. (2014), "A robustness-based design strategy for composite structures – probabilistic approach", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 86 No. 4, pp. 262-273. https://doi.org/10.1108/AEAT-04-2013-0071
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2014, Emerald Group Publishing Limited