Optimization of stiffened pannels based on quasi-analytical strength response functions

Abstract

Stiffened panels are basic constituents of wide scope of structures, their optimization being the focal point of optimization of any such structure as a whole. The main obstacle in application of sophisticated optimization software tools of today for that task is the lack of general formulation of relations between load and response parameters of such models. They are necessary to define programmable failure calculation as a built-in strength assessment module in any closed, repetitive optimization algorithm. Basic authors' idea is to overcome that problem using Bubnov's quasi-analytical formulae developed for analysis of ship hull plating grillages more than a century ago. In the first phase of this research, Bubnov's formulae were incorporated in Monte Carlo optimization algorithm, forming BiM - Bubnov in Monte Carlo procedure for optimization of laterally loaded stiffened panels. Results of this research are published in [1]. In this paper, attempt is made to further simplify the procedure by means of using extremely user friendly Excel Solver for optimization tasks. As a result, BiES - Bubnov in Excel Solver, a closed, programmable algorithm for optimization of laterally loaded stiffened panels is developed. The performance of the algorithm is tested on series of examples alternatively analyzed using FEM.