Abstract
Optimum design method of sandwich beam with required flexural stiffness is discussed in this paper. The calculated results of minimum weight design and minimum cost design using actual data on CFRP, GFRP, KFRP (Kevlar/epoxy), resin, and steel are shown, and it is found that minimum weight design is performed at the considerable sacrifice of the cost and minimum cost design is performed at the considerable sacrifice of the weight.
A proposal for optimum design method with the consideration of both weight and cost is drawn. The design criterion is derived from the assumption that the rate of increase in weight or cost is nearly equal to the rate of decrease in cost or weight at the optimum design solution for components to be designed in cosideration of weight and cost.
