A deformation model and draping behavior analysis of plain weave fabric with low-twist yarn on continuous surface

Abstract

Fiber-reinforced composites have been widely applied in aerospace, transportation and other industrial applications. An effective method shaping the complex performs is draping plain fabrics on the mandrel surface. However, it is a challenge to realize and predict accurately the deformation of fabric. To establish an accurate deformation mode, plain weave fabrics with low-twist yarn were classified into a stable structure that are not easy to deform and an unstable structures with large deformability based on microstructure characteristics. A variable microstructure unit-cell model has been established to analyze the variation of fabric geometry and performance during deformation. To analyze the draping behavior of fabric with large deformation, a four-node unit was used to mesh the fabric, and then each node on the fabric was mapped to the mandrel surface. The deformation of fabric after draping was simulated by the continuous change of the unit mesh. Analysis results showed that the thickness of preform decreases with the increase of the major-axis of the yarn cross-section, and the formability of fabric increases with the increase of fabric pitch. The accuracy and effectiveness of the geometric mapping method are verified by the fabric drape experiment.