As a major structural dynamic criterion in designing thin shells, the fundamental frequency is maximized for a specified total structural mass. The general optimization problem of metallic conical shell structures with clamped / free ends has been treated formally among all other types of boundary conditions. Both stiffened and unstiffened constructions are examined with the effective design va...

The use of composite laminate materials has increased rapidly in recent years due to their excellent strength to weight ratio and resistance to corrosion. In the construction of marine vessels, stiffened plates are the most commonly used structural elements, forming the deck, bottom hull, side shells and bulkheads. This paper presents the use of a stochastic approach to the design of stiffened ...