Multiobjective optimization for vibration reduction in composite plate structures using constrained layer damping

This paper presents a multiobjective optimization approach to minimize weight and maximize modal damping in laminated composite panels with Constrained Layer Damping (CLD) treatments. The design variables are the number and position of the CLD patch treatments on the surface of the laminated plate. The Direct MultiSearch (DMS) solver for multiobjective optimization problems is used in this work. DMS is a solver which does not use any derivatives of the objective functions. A previously developed finite element model for sandwich plates with viscoelastic core and anisotropic laminated face layers is adapted to model the plate with the CLD treatments. Applications for L-shaped and T-shaped plates are presented and both trade-off Pareto optimal fronts and the respective treatment configurations are obtained and the results are analyzed and discussed. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.