| 1.
Defining Geometry The mandrel
Geometry and winding machine clearance envelope
is easily entered and modified from a single
dialogue box (illustrated on the right.) The
graphics and text windows are automatically
updated.
Convex
and concave arcs can be fitted between data
positions and edited as required.
The
clearance envelope allows close control while
preventing machine collision with the mandrel.
For simple shapes an envelope can be
automatically created.
2.
Selecting Fibre paths
Having
created the mandrel geometry the user can
interactively create non-slip geodesic fibre
paths. Non-geodesic paths can be created using
the friction facilities. In this way the user can
control wind angles and turning diameters.
The
3D geometry and paths can be viewed from pre-set
viewpoints or from any user-defined viewpoint.
For
parts such as gradually tapered shafts (e.g. golf
shafts) the user can generate constant wind angle
(non-geodesic) paths using the constant angle
option.
3.
Interpreting the results
Having
created fibre path with two turning points the
software calculates the number of circuits
required to cover the mandrel based on material
parameters such as the fibre band width and the
number and type of rovings to be used.
A
band pattern is created (see across) and the user
can select the band structure required. If
required the number of cycles can be adjusted to
give alternative patterns.
The
user is given important data such as a thickness
graph of the part and the amount of fibre used.
Neutral file interfaces can be supplied to output
data for Finite Element Software.
Machine
positions are calculated using the envelope and
saved to a data file. All CADFIL data files are
text files and can be viewed if required.
The
machine positions can be displayed in 3D around
the mandrel or if required the user can define
the machine fibre dispensing head using brick and
cylinder soled shapes and perform a full 3D
animation including all machine motions such as
eye roll and eye yaw. An example is shown
opposite.
|
Elbow
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