Grant P. Steven - Böcker

This study discusses not only failure mechanisms and predictions of metal and composite bonded joints using both strength of materials and fracture mechanics methods, but also the analysis, design and manufacturing of stitched joints using Resin Transfer Moulding and Resin Film Infusion. These techniques have great potential in the manufacturing of lightweight composite structures. The damage tolerance of structural bonded joints is comprehensively covered and when dealing with optimum design the latest Evolutionary Structural Optimization technology is used to develop optimal joint design with improved strength. Joining design is critical in a structural design process, particularly for weight-sensitive structures, and bonded joints are being increasingly utilized, particularly in the aeronautical, automotive, civil and maritime industries.

Evolutionary Structural Optimization (ESO) is a design method based on the simple concept of gradually removing inefficient material from a structure as it is being designed. Through this method, the resulting structure will evolve towards its optimum shape. The latest techniques and results of ESO are presented here, illustrated by numerous clear and detailed examples. Sections cover the fundamental aspects of the method, the application to multiple load cases and multiple support environments, frequency optimization, stiffness and displacement constraints, buckling, jointed frame structures, shape optimization, and stress reduction. This is followed by a section describing Evolve97, a software package which will allow readers to try the ideas of ESO themselves and to solve their optimization problems. This software is provided on a computer diskette which accompanies the book.