Optimum buckling design of axially layered graded uniform columns

Abstract

This study presents optimum buckling design of axially layered graded uniform columns. Firstly, characteristic equations for determining critical buckling loads for all end conditions are obtained using the transfer matrix method and for each case, square of this equation is selected as a fitness function. Due to the explicitly unavailable objective function for the critical buckling loads as a function of volume fraction and length of the column, initially, prescribed value is assumed for it and then the design variables satisfying constraints are determined. Different boundary conditions are considered. Among them, maximum increment up to 19% of the critical buckling load is attained for the simply supported case. Finally, the strongest column configurations are determined. © Carl Hanser Verlag, München.