Abstract
A multiscale design software (Multiscale Designer), developed by Altair, has been studied for its suitability in analysis of advanced composite aircraft structures made of polymer matrix composites. The extensive experimental data provided by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) have been utilized to characterize the linear, non-linear, monotonic, and cyclic loading properties of micro-constituents comprising the PMC system. The characterized properties have been then utilized to predict progressive damage, residual strength, and damage mechanisms in notched and unnotched plates subjected to tensile and compressive loading. The validation program consisted of two phases: (i) the blind prediction phase and (ii) the recalibration phase. While simulation results in the blind prediction phase were reasonably good, considerable improvement has been observed in the recalibration phase.
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