In Project FibraGen, a hybrid kinematic-finite element algorithm is used to simulate the draping of a fabric (fiber composite) over a 3D mold. Although the technique proposed in that project is super fast and satisfactory enough for the hand layup fabrication process, it cannot be employed for other fabrication methods, particularly those done by press and mold.

When more accurate results are needed where wrinkles are modeled properly, high-fidelity finite element analysis is the way to go. However, this comes with a substantially higher computational cost compared to that of the method developed in Project FibraGen.

A key difficulty is that the standard constitutive equations (material models) do not apply to fiber-reinforced composites, as they are anisotropic materials and undergo large deformations in the fabrication processes. Thus, a new material model is required that can handle such complexities.

In this project, a new anisotropic hyperelastic material model is developed that can model fiber composites with two anisotropic directions. Here are a few examples of this model in action.