A voxel-based approach to meshing woven fibre composites

Matthew Blacklock, Frank W. Zok, Brian N. Cox

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

A voxel-based meshing technique is introduced for three-dimensional woven fibre composites. It offers a simple and computationally efficient method of meshing fibre tows and matrix, including material boundaries, for specimens of any size and thickness. Voxel element mesh geometry is validated against input in the form of a tetrahedral mesh generated exploiting a Delaunay formulation that utilises statistically representative tow information. Voxel meshes show excellent agreement with the more complex tetrahedral mesh for the prediction of surface displacements upon uni-axial loading, including the presence of displacement discontinuities at tow boundaries that may indicate damage initiation sites. A study is conducted to investigate the variation in matrix thickness and the subsequent effect on surface geometry and displacements. This found an increase in matrix thickness substantially reduces the presence of displacement discontinuities, thus reducing the likelihood of strain-induced cracking in these regions.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication8th Australasian Congress on Applied Mechanics, ACAM 2014, as Part of Engineers Australia Convention 2014
EditorsRaj Das, Sabu John
PublisherEngineers Australia
Pages68-76
Number of pages9
ISBN (Electronic)9781922107350
Publication statusPublished - 1 Nov 2014
Externally publishedYes
Event8th Australasian Congress on Applied Mechanics, ACAM 2014, as Part of Engineers Australia Convention 2014 - Melbourne, Australia
Duration: 25 Nov 201426 Nov 2014

Publication series

Name8th Australasian Congress on Applied Mechanics, ACAM 2014, as Part of Engineers Australia Convention 2014

Conference

Conference8th Australasian Congress on Applied Mechanics, ACAM 2014, as Part of Engineers Australia Convention 2014
Country/TerritoryAustralia
CityMelbourne
Period25/11/1426/11/14

Keywords

  • Fibre tows
  • Matrix meshing
  • Voxel element mesh
  • Woven composites

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