Reliability-based optimization of a laminated cylinder subject to a given axial load and pressure

This paper proposes a method for the design of a [±α]n laminated cylinder based on reliability evaluation. As each lamina has the same limit state function, the two bounds of the probability of failure coincide and the resulting reliability system is therefore simple. Numerical results show an optimal fiber orientation angle which maximizes the reliability index β. The corresponding value of β can be adjusted to achieve a specified reliability level. Then partial safety factors can be deduced for a semi-probabilistic design.