Topology Optimization of a Flywheel Energy Storage Rotor Using a Genetic Algorithm

This paper deals with topology optimization of the rotor of a flywheel energy storage system (FESS). For isotropic materials the constant stress disc (CSD) is the best choice to maximize energy density. Modern FESS are manufactured of fiber reinforced plastics (FRP), due to their high specific strength. Because of the transverse isotropic material description the optimal rotor topology changes. A genetic algorithm (GA) for nonlinear integer problems will be used to find the best rotor structure which can be manufactured within one filament winding process.