Abstract
This paper presents a simple code written in MATLAB for simulating and optimizing the draping of a composite material fabric onto a mold. Being simple and kinematically based, the algorithm can be used to predict the final fiber orientations after a fabric has adapted to a double-curved mold surface. These fiber orientations will in turn govern the mechanical properties of the composite part and a draping analysis is thus advantageous in connection with a structural analysis as well as manufacturing. The code is intended for educational purposes and can be found in the Appendix of the paper and on the repository at https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.4316860 along with a Python implementation. After a description of the code, various extensions are introduced, including a framework for optimization of the draping parameters.
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Funding
The work presented in the paper took place as part of the MADEBLADES project funded by the Energy Technology Development and Demonstration Program, Grant No. 64019-0514.
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The concept and initial code development was carried out by C. Krogh. All authors contributed to the development of the scope of the paper and the code. The first draft of the manuscript was written by C. Krogh. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
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The code is available in the appendices of the paper and on the following repository in the latest version: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.4316860. A Python implementation is also available.
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Responsible Editor: Palaniappan Ramu
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Appendices
Appendix 1. KinDrape code
Appendix 2. Optimization script code
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Krogh, C., Bak, B.L.V., Lindgaard, E. et al. A simple MATLAB draping code for fiber-reinforced composites with application to optimization of manufacturing process parameters. Struct Multidisc Optim 64, 457–471 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00158-021-02925-z
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00158-021-02925-z