Ply-based modeling provides an FEA methodology which is consistent with the composite
manufacturing process. The ply-based modeling entities replace, and can generate,
typical solver zone-based composite properties.
A valid ply-based model contains the following entities:
Laminate(s)
Typically, one laminate per physical part is defined. Primarily,
laminates contain the stack of plies. Additionally, laminates specify
symmetry and repeats of plies within a laminate, along with information
that can manipulate the ABD matrices.
Plies
Plies define the material, thickness, orientation (from reference on
element/property material direction), shape (Elements, or element sets
if FEA-based. Lines, surfaces or solids if geometry-based), and ply type
(the material product of the ply).
Template Property
If user profile is OptiStruct, a PCOMPP is
used. If another user profile is selected, a standard zone-based
composite shell property is used. The property defines typical solver
specific attributes like offset and non-structural mass. Layer
information does not need to be entered. It is automatically populated
from the defined plies and laminate.
Consider the following composite part which is made up of 1 laminate, 7 plies and 1
template property: Figure 1.
Ply-based models can optionally be used to generate zone-based shell models,
continuum shell, and solid models.
