Maximization of fundamental frequencies of axially compressed laminated curved panels against fiber orientation

Free vibration analyses of laminated curved panels subjected to axial compressive forces are carried out by employing the Abaqus finite element program. The fundamental frequencies of these composite laminated curved panels with a given material system are then maximized with respect to fiber orientations by using the golden section method. Through a parametric study, the significant influences of the end conditions, the panel aspect ratio, the panel curvature and the compressive force on the maximum fundamental frequencies and the associated optimal fiber orientations are demonstrated and discussed.