A comprehensive preliminary design methodology for large composite structures based on global optimization strategies is presented. The design tool developed based on this approach uses classical lamination theory (CLT) and applies closed form solutions to analyze composite structures. A weak point of the approach prior to this research was the assumption of fixed load distribution over the structure during the optimization process which leads to invalid designs. A finite element analysis (FEA) module is integrated in the design tool to account for load redistribution. A novel interaction study of FEA with global optimization convergence is also presented.; A significant part of the comprehensive preliminary design tool is the development of efficient optimization strategies. Here random search algorithms, Improving Hit and Run (IHR) and simulated annealing (SA), are combined with a hierarchical and a unique penalty schedule based formulations to determine the best strategy to address realistic engineering design problems. The optimization strategies are contrasted with each other and several are shown to be extremely effective in solving constrained global optimization problems in mixed continuous and discrete domains.; The effort has led to an integrated preliminary design approach which will allow a designer to obtain accurate optimal designs of large composite structures with significantly reduced design cycle time. The effectiveness of the approach is demonstrated by the successful optimization of a composite fuselage section design.
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