Optimal Design of Intelligent Composite Structures

Basic aspects of the mechanical modeling, design and optimization of intelligent structures are formulated and discussed. Governing equations describing the mechanical behavior of a smart elastic composite structure incorporating sensors and actuators are developed and the major optimal design problems are formulated. Theory is illustrated by three examples of intelligent structures of practical interest, which represent three basic classes of optimization problems, on account of residual stresses, material properties, and the geometry of a structure.