Structural composite laminates optimisation cycle coupled with a computer aided manufacturing process: An application into resin transfer moulding technology

The present paper is devoted to the analysis and structural optimisation of composite laminates, as an integrated part of a computer aided manufacturi ng process. This process can be applied to composite laminates obtained through differe nt technological processes, such as, lay-up, spray-up, resin transfer mould ing etc. Into the present paper a direct application of this method into re sin transfer moulding manufacturing will be discussed. The interactive desi gn and manufacturing process discussed into the following, allows to contro l and optimise manufacture characteristics through evaluation of critical l oaded areas and calculation of the appropriate reinforcement. Moreover, through this process it is possible to determine the deposition p hase parameters in order to follow as better as possible the structural opt imisation results.