Composites design optimization software updated
Source: CompositesWorld
Collier Research Corp. has introduced the newest version of its HyperSizer optimization software, called HyperSizer Express, which delivers key capabilities of the full professional version of HyperSizer in a user-friendly package aimed at the composites engineer.
Author: Sara Black
Collier Research Corp. (Newport News, VA, US) has introduced the newest version of its HyperSizer optimization software, called HyperSizer Express, which delivers key capabilities of the full professional version of HyperSizer in a user-friendly package aimed at the composites engineer. As explained by Collier’s Bertram Stier, a research engineer focused on advanced composites, a customer’s finite element analysis (FEA) is first imported (Express is FEA-agnostic and most products are compatible). A streamlined, menu-driven “wizard” interface then guides the user through the analysis process, which produces optimum composite laminates that satisfy all analyses to all load cases, fulfilling strength and stiffness requirements, in as little as 30 minutes. Stier says the automatically updated model will arrive at the minimum weight with global plies and stacking sequences identified, layer by layer, with fully-manufacturable laminate designs: “HyperSizer Express finds the best location for monolithic laminates versus cored laminates, for example, plus optimal fiber direction and ply thickness.” The software can also handle designs with prepreg ply patches.