General method to digitalize multi-layer woven structure

Abstract

As an advanced composite reinforcement, multi-layer woven fabrics are widely used in industries. However, for most nonprofessional engineers and researchers, the complexity of the spatial architecture of multi-layer woven structure (MLWS) makes it difficult to understand and apply. In order to fully utilize the advantage of the designability of MLWS, a digitalization expression is used to define the design variable of MLWS by 8 parameters. This expression has wide universality and practicability, which can parametrize all kinds of MLWSs, and characterize full-scale complex preforms. Based on this expression, a general method and process for constructing novel and complex MLWS architectures are also proposed and developed. Furthermore, a method to generate the preform jacquard pattern for the electronic jacquard system is also developed to demonstrate the application in manufacturing. This digitalization expression can be considered as the key point to connect the material design and automatic manufacturing, which can improve the design technology of multi-layer woven composite material.