Modelling and finite element treatment of intra-ply shearing of woven fabric

Diaphragm forming of fibre/epoxy materials is a potential cost-effective approach in manufacturing aerospace components. Significant intra-ply shearing is essential in diaphragm forming a double-curvature geometry. In previous studies, the intra-ply shearing was addressed based on an ideal fibre reinforced fluid (IFRF) model. The IFRF model was tried in the present study for a thermoset material. However, it fails to interpret the experimental results. New models, namely general hinge model and restrained membrane model were thus suggested for intra-ply shearing simulations. The concept of the restrained membrane model was demonstrated using finite element simulations with determined material properties. The proposed model provided a good reproduction of the experimental results. Discussions were given on inherent limitations of the IFRF model and the effects of fibre in-plane bending.