ABSTRACT
A designer could proceed with a search for the minimum-weight solution by trial and error through examining all of the possible combinations of materials and thicknesses for each sandwich element. However, even with excellent insight and intuition, this random-walk approach is time consuming and is not guaranteed to provide the absolute minimum weight panel. In performing the optimization, unique expressions are obtained for each geometric variable of the minimum-weight panel. Additionally, a "universal relationship" is found that relates the applied load index to unique values of face- and core-element stresses for given materials and boundary conditions. The methods developed are also applicable to panels at any steady-state temperature if the material properties are known at that temperature. Conversely, one could say that if a particular failure mode is significantly stronger than the others, then the material associated with this excess strength could either be removed or could be reallocated to bring all modes closer to equality.
