An integrated methodology for optimizing the passive damping of composite structures

Abstract A method is presented for tailoring plate and shell composite structures for optimal forced damped dynamic response. The passive damping of specific vibration modes is optimized with respect to dynamic performance criteria including placement of natural frequencies and minimization of resonance amplitudes. The method provides the capability to tailor micromechanics, laminate and structural parameters. Application studies include the optimization of laminated composite beams and composite shells with fiber volume ratios and ply angles as design variables. The results illustrate the significance of damping tailoring to the dynamic performance of composite structures and the effectiveness of the method in optimizing the structural dynamic response.