Keywords: multi-objective optimization, light-weight structures, prismatic sandwich panels, genetic algorithms, heat transfer performance, vibration attenuation.

Sandwich panels have wide engineering applications because of their high strength and low weight. Their potential abilities of cooling as well as vibration attenuation make them even more attractive for multifunctional usage. The static, dynamic as well as the thermal properties of the sandwich panels are analyzed in the present work. By means of Hamilton's principle, the equations of motion of the sandwich panel are formulated. Thereafter, the dynamic property is analyzed based on the characteristic equation of the dynamic system. Then the dynamic property is correlated to the property of vibration attenuation of the panel. The static properties considered are the yielding and buckling conditions of the panel. The proposed multi-objective optimization problem is composed of two objectives, which are to minimize the weight of the whole panel and to maximize the heat transfer performance of the panel, and seven constraints classified as the static, dynamic and geometric constraints. The multi-objective optimization problem is explored using genetic algorithms, which is a type of stochastic searching algorithms [1]. The sandwich panels are optimized in terms of the functions of load sustaining, heat dissipation and vibration attenuation at the possible smallest weight. The relations between the above-mentioned functions and the weight of the panel are explored and the optimized dimensions of the sandwich panels are determined.

The study shows that the sandwich panels are good candidates for multi-functionality usage. Using the proposed method, the dynamic property is successfully included in a multi-objective optimization for the sandwich panels. For any set of design requirements, the optimal dimensions can be determined through the proposed procedure. It is found that any sandwich panel can possess the vibration attenuation property up to 10Hz or even 100Hz without significantly affecting other functions and the required weight of the panel. In addition, it has been found that enhancement of various functionalities, such as heat transfer performance, ability of sustaining loads and vibration attenuation, can be achieved by adding weight to the sandwich panel at the appropriate positions as indicated by the optimized dimensions. It can help the decision-maker to select the most appropriate design parameter set from all of the possible solutions based on their specific needs.

1

Z. Michalewicz, "Genetic Algorithms + Data Structures = Evolution Programs", Springer-Verlag, Berlin, Germany, 1996.

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