Stiffened structures optimization

Standard shapes for composite stiffeners are not likely to occur for most aerospace applications. There, the value and function of the structure warrant optimizing the stiffener design. In contrast, for more everyday applications such as scaffolding, stairways, and walkways in chemical plants, competitive pressures lead to a situation where compromises in stiffener efficiency are readily accepted (overdesign) in order to achieve lower cost than would be associated with optimum design. 

Jadhav, P. and Mantena, P.R. (2007) Parametric optimization of grid-stiffened composite panels for maximizing their performance under transverse loading. Composite Structures, 77, 353-363. 

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