Localization simulation of forming-induced residual stresses of composite using prescribed boundary

Abstract

A novel localization approach that seamlessly bridges the macro- and micro-scale models is proposed and used to model the forming-induced residual stresses within a representative volume element of a fiber reinforced composite. The approach uses a prescribed boundary that is theoretically deduced by integrating the asymptotic expansion of a composite and the equal strain transfer, thus rendering the simulation setting to be easier than conventional approaches. When the localization approach is used for the finite element analysis, the temperature and residual stresses within an ideal cubic representative volume element are precisely simulated, given a sandwiched thermoplastic composite is formed under one-side cooling condition. The simulation results, after being validated, show that the temperature gradient has an impact on the local residual stresses, especially on the in-plane normal stress transverse to the fiber, and consequently, influences the structural deformation. This newly designed localization approach demonstrates the advantages of enhanced precision and reduced computational cost owing to the fast modeling of the finely meshed representative volume element. This is beneficial for a detailed understanding of the actual residual stresses at the micro-scale.