Fiber Trajectory Definition Using Vector Field Grids
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for defining fiber trajectories on layup surfaces for composite material production are time-consuming and tedious, especially for complex and non-continuous surfaces, requiring lengthy manual calculations and adjustments for curvature and angular deviations.
Innovation Solution
A method using a finite element mesh to generate a vector field from direction data and transfer methods, allowing for faster calculation and integration of design and manufacturing constraints, such as those represented by stress curves and grids, to define fiber trajectories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional rosette-based transfer methods are used to define fiber trajectories, then the trajectories can be generated with proper directional control, but the calculation time becomes relatively long especially for complex surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-calculates and stores direction vectors for each finite element in the mesh before trajectory generation. This preliminary action allows the trajectory calculation to simply reference these pre-computed vectors rather than performing complex rosette transfers during trajectory definition, significantly reducing calculation time while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the layup surface into a finite element mesh, where each element has pre-defined direction vectors. This segmentation allows independent pre-computation of direction data for each element, which can then be efficiently assembled into complete trajectories without repeated complex calculations
2Manufacturing precision
If manual redefinition of trajectories is performed to adapt to curvature and angular deviation constraints, then the trajectories can be optimized for manufacturing feasibility, but the process becomes long and tedious
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs automated steering analysis and angular deviation analysis on the generated trajectories, then uses this feedback information to automatically adjust and optimize the trajectories. This closed-loop feedback mechanism eliminates manual trial-and-adjustment cycles while ensuring trajectories meet manufacturing constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment of trajectories with automated computational algorithms. The software automatically analyzes trajectory curvature and angular deviations, then computationally optimizes the paths to satisfy manufacturing constraints, substituting human manual work with automated mechanical-computational systems
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional methods are used to define trajectories on non-continuous surfaces with recesses and bosses, then the trajectories can be defined, but the positioning at discontinuities becomes complicated and requires lengthy manual operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the non-continuous surface into a finite element mesh that naturally accommodates discontinuities like recesses and bosses. Each element's direction vectors are independently defined, allowing the system to automatically handle complex geometries without special manual intervention at discontinuity locations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from manual positioning parameters to automated vector field parameters. By defining direction vectors for each mesh element based on the underlying geometry, the system automatically adapts to complex surface features including discontinuities, eliminating the need for manual parameter adjustment at problematic locations
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for defining fibre trajectories on a draping surface for making at least one given theoretical orientation fold, characterised in that it comprises: the definition of a grid on the draping surface; the definition of direction data associated with at least one transfer method; and the definition of a vector field by associating, with each cell of the grid, at least one guiding vector obtained by the transfer of said direction data according to said transfer method, the trajectory of a fibre being defined on the basis of said vector field.