Optimum Fiber Steering of Composite Plates for Buckling and Manufacturability

Abstract

This paper reveals the potential weight saving in creating lightweight composite panels using the novel Continous Tow Shearing technique. The method provides a unique capability to simultaneously manipulate fibre angles and local thicknesses, whilst achieving defect-free, high curvature fibre paths. Considering the buckling of a typical aircraft wing skin, the nonlinear optimisation problem presented, shows theoretical designs with significant weights savings if compared to panels made from conventional straight fibre angles (38%) or steered using Automated Fibre Placement techniques (20%). The implications due to constraints on panel<br/>strength, damage tolerance and manufacturing costs are then considered.