Accuracy of Intersection Counting Method in Measurement of Fiber Orientation Angle Distribution Using Image Processing

Abstract

While mold fiber reinforced composite material to problem of occasion that high temperature compression molding, flow length in mold is overlong or when flow meets with resistance in side of mold, fiber orientation happens and big change occurs in strength or quality. Thus, in compression molding that use fiber reinforced composite material, orientation state of fiber in moldings is the most basic element that quotes various properties of matter values. Therefore, to clear orientation state of fiber establishing measurement of fiber orientation angle distribution is very important while give correction of molding condition decision, mechanical quality of moldings and guide about material design. In the study, the fiber orientation distribution of simulation figure plotted by PC is measured using image processing in order to examine the accuracy of intersection counting method. The fiber orientation function measured by intersection counting method using image processing is compared with the calculated fiber orientation function. The results show that the measured value of fiber orientation function using intersection counting method is lower than the calculated value, because the number of intersection between the scanning line and the fiber with smaller fiber aspect ratio is counted less than with larger fiber aspect ratio.