Structural optimisation of random discontinuous fibre composites: Part 2 - case study

Qian, C.C.; Harper, L.T.; Turner, T.A.; Warrior, N.A.

Abstract

This is the second paper in a two part series presenting the development of a stiffness optimisation algorithm to intelligently optimise the fibre architecture of discontinuous fibre composites. A Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) strategy is used to select parameters associated with the fibre architecture, to produce components that satisfy stiffness, cost and mass criteria. The model has been successfully demonstrated using an automotive spare wheel well geometry, which shows that a highly optimised discontinuous fibre composite solution can compete against a continuous fabric counterpart in terms of specific stiffness, whilst presenting an opportunity for significant cost reduction. This could potentially lead to the application of composite materials into new areas where cost has previously been prohibitive.

Citation

Qian, C., Harper, L., Turner, T., & Warrior, N. (2015). Structural optimisation of random discontinuous fibre composites: Part 2 - case study. Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing, 68, Article 417-424. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compositesa.2014.09.004

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Sep 5, 2014
• Online Publication Date: Sep 17, 2014
• Publication Date: Jan 31, 2015
• Deposit Date: Aug 3, 2017
• Publicly Available Date: Aug 3, 2017
• Journal: Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing
• Print ISSN: 1359-835X
• Electronic ISSN: 1359-835X
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 68
• Article Number: 417-424
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compositesa.2014.09.004
• Keywords: Discontinuous reinforcement, Finite element analysis, Preform, Automation
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/742144
• Publisher URL: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1359835X14002772