FABRIC DRAPING SIMULATION IN COMPOSITES MANUFACTURING .2. ANALYTICAL METHODS

The use of a draping simulation as an aid in the manufacture of compos ite structures is described in Part I of this paper Part II describes algorithms used within a draping simulation to calculate yarn paths on a surface and local ply properties. The draping algorithms described include two-yam and single-yarn uniqueness constraints and a finite el ement method. The best quality draping occurs when the total shear def ormation energy in the fabric is minimized. A test is described for de termining fabric shear deformation limits. Recent and future simulatio n developments include combining a draping simulation with a finite el ement stress analysis and a resin infusion flow simulation.