Pre-Processing using HyperMesh

Using HyperWorks, there are two different types of composite modeling that can be performed; Traditional zone-based modeling and Modern ply-based modeling. Expand each section to view a short description of each method:

Zone-based Composite Modeling

  • PCOMP/G or *SHELL SECTION, COMPOSITE
  • Traditional composites modeling method
  • Exists in all preprocessors including HyperWorks v12.0
  • Requires one property for each laminate zone
  • Zone-based modeling limitations
    1. Data duplication
    2. Difficult to interpret ply shape
    3. No relationship to the manufacturing process
    4. Model updates require multiple steps

Ply-based composite modeling

  • PLY / STACK / PCOMPP
  • Modern composites modeling method
  • Requires one property for each laminate zone
  • An individual composite part is one laminate made up of plies which are stacked in a given sequence
  • Resolves many of the limitations
    1. No data duplication
    2. Plies defined as "physical objects" with shape
    3. Direct relationship to the manufacturing process
    4. Model updates require single step

Within HyperMesh, Plies and Laminates are HyperMesh entities. Therefore, both of these entities can be created, edited, and deleted directory from the HyperMesh Browsers. Also, Plies and Laminate data can be imported and exported directly from or to Excel.

Visualization

There are also visualization tools availabe within HyperMesh. This allows you to visually verify the engineering data of your math model. The Element and Composite visualization tools are highlighed in the image below. Roll over the highlighted areas of the image to see the various options available.

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Below are some images showing how the different visualizations can affect how your model is displayed. You can zoom and rotate your model while in these visualization modes. The 2D Representation with Composite Layers only applies to PLY-based models.


Within HyperMesh, plies and Laminates are HyperMesh entities and can be created, edited and deleted within HyperMesh like all other entities. This includes being able to create, edit and delete them directly from HyperMesh Browsers.


In addition to creating laminates in HyperMesh, you can also import and export laminate data from or to Excel.

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Ply-based composite realization/absorption

HyperMesh also allows you to perform specific actions on your composite model. Within HyperMesh you can Realize generic HyperMesh ply-based composite models as solver zone-based composite models. You can also Absorb solver zone-based composite models as generic HyperMesh ply-based composite models. The Realization/Absorption technology available in Hyper Mesh provide a unique composite conversion capability.