Citation:
A.A. Skordos, C. Monroy Aceves and M.P.F. Sutcliffe, A simplified rate dependent model of forming and wrinkling of pre-impregnated woven composites, Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing, Volume 38, Issue 5, May 2007, Pages 1318-1330
Abstract:
A simplified finite element model is developed and validated for the forming/
draping of pre-impregnated woven composites, incorporating the effects of
wrinkling and strain rate dependence. The model development builds upon previous
work on simulation of fabric draping using a truss representation of the woven
material. Tows are modelled by stiff elastic bar elements, and the non-linear
rate dependent shear behaviour is incorporated in elastic-viscoplastic elements
that follow an appropriate phenomenological constitutive model. Wrinkling due to
tow buckling is simulated by allowing the deactivation of tow elements that
undergo compressive deformation. The model convergence is tested and its
validity is checked against experimental results from the forming of pre-
impregnated woven carbon hemispheres. It is found that the model reproduces
successfully experimental measurements of shear and wrinkling with a relative
error of approximately 4%, while solution times are kept below 60 s on a
conventional PC. These features allow potential iterative use of the model
within a process optimisation scheme. The sensitivity of the process outcome to
process parameters such as blank holder force and forming speed is investigated.
