A numerical approach for the shape optimization of woven fabric composite structural elements

• Κύριος συγγραφέας: Κουμπιάς, Αντώνιος
• Άλλοι συγγραφείς: Παντελάκης, Σπυρίδων
• Μορφή: Thesis
• Γλώσσα: English
• Έκδοση: 2015
• Θέματα: Shape optimization; Numerical modelling; Composite materials; Composite structures; Numerical approach; Βελτιστοποίηση γεωμετρίας; Αριθμητική μεθοδολογία; Σύνθετα υλικά; Δομικά στοιχέια; Αριθμητική μοντελοποίηση; 620.118 4

In the present thesis a novel numerical approach for the optimization of composite structures fabricated from woven composite materials is developed. The aim is to increase the ultimate strength of the structure while at the same time decreasing its weight. The numerical approach is based on a combination of the numerical algorithm of progressive damage modelling (PDM), along with shape optimization (SO) in an iterative subroutine. PDM, which is comprised of three steps, namely stress analysis, failure analysis and material property degradation, is used to predict the initiation and propagation of failure in the structure. During the phase of SO certain geometrical parameters are varied within limits in order to minimize the stresses that lead the structure to ultimate failure as indicated by PDM results. Finally the resulting geometry is solved with PDM to ensure the enhancement in the ultimate strength and the decrease in ultimate weight. Within the frame of this approach, a new methodology for the numerical modeling and the simulation of mechanical behavior of woven composite materials is proposed. The highly inhomogeneous nature of woven composite materials in the micro-scale is taken under consideration to create accurate representative volume element (RVE) FE models which represent the actual material. Then PDM is used for the simulation of their mechanical response. The calculated properties, in terms of stiffnesses and strengths, are then inserted as inputs in the global FE model of the composite structure. Additionally, the reliability and applicability of a continuum damage model (CDM), in comparison with cohesive zone model (CZM), are assessed in order to use the CDM for the modeling of the adhesive’s mechanical behavior. The mentioned numerical approach is applied in an H-shaped joining element fabricated from two different woven composite materials for the loading case of tension. In the first case NCF composite is used while in the second case the joint is made of 3D fully interlaced weave (FIW) composite. The purpose of the H-shaped element is the joining of two composite plates via the method of adhesive bonding.