Optimizing the shape and placement of patches of reinforcement fibers

A methodology to optimize the shape and the placement of single patches of reinforcement fibers is introduced. It consists of a flexible and robust optimization engine using evolutionary algorithms and a sequence of two different simulation tools to evaluate the designs. In order to best match the lay-up process, the presented parameterization is applied on patches of reinforcement fibers and not on laminate regions. An optimal placement of such a single patch moving on a dome-like structure is implemented to validate the methodology.