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The MSC.Laminate Modeler is a specialized tool for the creation and visualization of a ply-based laminated composite model. An analysis model consisting of appropriate laminate materials and element properties can be generated automatically for a number of different analysis codes. Following analysis, specific composite results can be calculated to verify the performance of the model. The general process for generating a laminate composite model is as follows:
1. Create Homogeneous Materials (Patran)
Materials are typically orthotropic, and the user should specify failure coefficients when defining materials.
2. Create Mesh (Patran)
The surface on which the composite layup is to be built is defined by the shell elements of the finite element mesh in the Patran database. The user should generate a mesh of sufficient resolution for both drape simulation and analysis purposes. It is a requirement that the meshing is completed before starting a session. Use the tools in the Finite Element application to verify the element normals and the free edges of the model before creating a new Layup file.
3. Create Ply Materials (MSC.Laminate Modeler)
These materials are analogous to raw ply materials and include a reference to a homogeneous material for specifying mechanical properties, as well as manufacturing related information like thickness.
4. Create Plies (MSC.Laminate Modeler)
Create plies in a manner which reflects the manufacturing process.
5. Create a LM_Layup and an Analysis Model (MSC.Laminate Modeler)
A layup, or sequence of plies, is defined, allowing the creation of corresponding laminate materials and element properties required to define an analysis mode..
6. Analyze (Patran and analysis code)
The analysis is submitted in the usual way. The user may have to explicitly request layered composites results from the analysis code.
7. Create Results (MSC.Laminate Modeler)
The user may sort results on the basis of physical plies or define new ones based on a failure analysis.
These operations are summarized schematically overleaf.
Overview
Figure 3‑1 Overview of MSC.Laminate Modeler Process
