Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Yan Gao, Zequn Lin, Yanquan Zhou, Zihan Ling, Jiale Dong, Huan Wang, Hua-Xin Peng
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the impact of component size on curing optimization for thick composite laminates, where the curing behavior is closely related to the thickness. The Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to examine the sensitivity of curing parameters to specimen size and establish the relationship between constraints, optimization objectives, and curing parameters. The results showed that increasing the first dwell temperature (CT1) and time (t1) improved curing quality, while increasing the first heating rate (r1) significantly reduced curing time. The selection criteria for the second dwell temperature (CT2) and heating rate (r2) heavily depended on two constraints and component size. The study found that the Pearson's correlation coefficient qualitatively reflected the changes in curing parameters and provided guidance for curing process optimization.
MATERIALS TODAY COMMUNICATIONS
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Composites
Zhenyi Yuan, Lingfei Kong, Dajing Gao, Xinxing Tong, Yu Feng, Guigeng Yang, Zhenchao Yang, Shujuan Li
Summary: A multi-objective optimization approach was proposed in this paper to optimize the cure process of thick composite components, using a multi-field coupled model, surrogate model, and genetic algorithm. The results show that this approach effectively reduces cure time, maximum temperature overshoot, and maximum gradient of DoC, leading to improved performance of thick composite laminate.
COMPOSITES COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Composites
Yan Gao, Jing Ye, Zhenyi Yuan, Zihan Ling, Yanquan Zhou, Zequn Lin, Jiale Dong, Huan Wang, Hua-Xin Peng
Summary: A strategy based on surrogate model and genetic algorithm was proposed to optimize the curing process of ultra-thick carbon fiber composites, aiming to reduce thermal gradient and temperature overshoot and improve mechanical properties.
COMPOSITES COMMUNICATIONS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Manufacturing
K. I. Tifkitsis, A. Winistoerfer, A. A. Skordos
Summary: This paper presents the development of an active control tool for in-situ optimization of the cure process of thick composite parts. The tool integrates a cure process model with real-time monitoring data to explore temperature dwells that can accelerate curing while avoiding thermal gradients. The active control tool, which interacts with a PID controller of an oven, can significantly reduce process duration and temperature overshoot compared to a nominal cure cycle.
JOURNAL OF MANUFACTURING PROCESSES
(2023)
Article
Automation & Control Systems
Wenchang Zhang, Yingjie Xu, Xinyu Hui, Weihong Zhang
Summary: This paper presents a multi-objective optimization method for the cure of thick composite laminates, which successfully reduces cure time and maximum temperature overshoot, especially for ultra-thick laminates. The four-dwell cure profile is more effective than the two-dwell profile in significantly reducing cure time and maximum temperature overshoot.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADVANCED MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Composites
Xinyu Hui, Yingjie Xu, Wenchang Zhang, Weihong Zhang
Summary: In this paper, a collaborative optimization strategy is proposed to reconcile the contradiction between the improvement of carbon fiber reinforced resin matrix composite performance and the increase of manufacturing cost. The strategy aims to reduce both process-induced defects and process time. By considering the multiscale characteristics of the composites and implementing a multi-objective optimization, the proposed strategy successfully reduces the maximum temperature gradient, maximum residual stress, and process time simultaneously.
COMPOSITES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Marine
Yu Gao, Jiaxin Gao, Xiaowen Song, Huiming Ding, Han Wang
Summary: In this study, a collaborative grading optimization method for the geometry and layup of rib-reinforced ultra-thick composite pressure hull is proposed in order to improve the design efficiency. The sensitivity analysis of geometric parameters on weight, stability, and strength of the pressure hull is conducted. The results show that the optimized rib-reinforced configuration reduces the buoyancy factor by 41% compared to the mono-shell.
Article
Materials Science, Composites
Bo Zhang, Yingguang Li, Shuting Liu, Yingxiang Shen, Xiaozhong Hao
Summary: A novel layered self-resistance electric heating (L-SRE) method was proposed in this paper to achieve highly homogeneous temperature distribution in the curing process of thick carbon fiber reinforced thermosetting composite laminates. This method provides a new solution for high-quality and energy-efficient curing.
POLYMER COMPOSITES
(2021)
Article
Mechanics
Thanh N. Huynh, Jaehong Lee
Summary: This article presents a two-stage optimization approach for finding optimal blended composite laminate designs by predicting the optimal thickness distribution. By predicting the optimal thicknesses, the method simplifies the blending optimization problem and improves the combinatorial optimization efficiency.
COMPOSITE STRUCTURES
(2024)
Article
Polymer Science
Guowei Zhang, Ling Luo, Ting Lin, Boming Zhang, He Wang, Yuao Qu, Bangke Meng
Summary: This study investigates the optimization of the curing cycle for thick aramid fibre-reinforced epoxy composites using the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) method. Results indicate that dwelling temperature is the main factor affecting overheating temperature. The optimized curing cycle successfully reduces the overheating temperature.
Article
Computer Science, Interdisciplinary Applications
Kanak Kalita, Ranjan Kumar Ghadai, Shankar Chakraborty
Summary: In this paper, a comprehensive study was conducted on the effectiveness and optimization performance of designing skew composite laminates under dynamic operational environments. The FE-CHP algorithm was found to outperform other algorithms in terms of accuracy, computational speed, and solution reliability.
ENGINEERING WITH COMPUTERS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Mechanical
Zifan Zhang, Chang Peng, Guangjun Wang, Zengye Ju, Long Ma
Summary: This study proposes a new method for optimal sensor placement of composite virtual strain sensing, which can obtain the global unbiased estimation of modal coordinates. It utilizes a Bayesian probabilistic model and K-L divergence to achieve this goal. The proposed method also introduces a new variance determination method to improve the stability of the solution. The effectiveness of the method is demonstrated through an example involving a laminate plate.
MECHANICAL SYSTEMS AND SIGNAL PROCESSING
(2023)
Article
Mechanics
Salih Alan, Nefize Shaban, Gullu Kiziltas Sendur, Bekir Bediz
Summary: In this study, a novel optimization framework was proposed, which combines a highly accurate and computationally efficient spectral element modeling technique with an index-based optimization approach that satisfies manufacturing guidelines and empirical rules. The accuracy and computational performance of the proposed framework were demonstrated in composite laminates, and its capability and efficiency were shown in various stiffened composites.
COMPOSITE STRUCTURES
(2024)
Article
Engineering, Mechanical
Max Spencer, Xiao Chen
Summary: This study presents an experimental investigation of cracking behavior in thick carbon/glass fiber hybrid composite laminates with manufacturing-induced ply wrinkles. The study shows that despite their higher extension stiffness, the hybrid laminates first crack at a lower stress level than the pure glass ones. A novel image difference analysis method is proposed to accurately and efficiently pinpoint stiffness drops during fatigue loading.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FATIGUE
(2023)
Article
Mechanics
Ye Tian, Tielin Shi, Qi Xia
Summary: This paper presents a design optimization method for composite laminates reinforced by curvilinear fibers, considering manufacturing constraints. The method uses a parametric level set approach and compactly supported radial basis functions (CS-RBFs) to define the fiber paths in each layer of the laminate. Constraints, such as gradient norm and contour curvature radius, are considered to maintain structural integrity. Numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in compliance minimization and eigen-frequency maximization.
COMPOSITE STRUCTURES
(2023)
Article
Instruments & Instrumentation
Danilo D'Angela, Marianna Ercolino, Costanzo Bellini, Vittorio Di Cocco, Francesco Iacoviello
Summary: The paper proposes an innovative approach for damage assessment of ductile cast irons using probabilistic-based methodology, based on experimental results of acoustic emissions tests. The information entropy of AEs data is confirmed to be well correlated to damage progress and incipient failure, providing robust failure criteria for real-time assessment in structural health monitoring applications.
SMART MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Mechanical
Costanzo Bellini, Rosario Borrelli, Vittorio Di Cocco, Stefania Franchitti, Francesco Iacoviello, Luca Sorrentino
Summary: Lattice structures are known for their high mechanical efficiency due to their specific geometry, which provides high strength and stiffness along with lightweight properties. This study examined the flexural properties of a titanium alloy lattice structure produced by electron beam melting, revealing that span length impacts the load-displacement trend. Additionally, skin failure was observed in all test conditions, with indentations in the upper skin for the shortest span length. The presence of dimples on the fracture surface indicated a ductile fracture behavior.
FATIGUE & FRACTURE OF ENGINEERING MATERIALS & STRUCTURES
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Manufacturing
Costanzo Bellini, Vittorio Di Cocco, Francesco Iacoviello, Luca Sorrentino
Summary: The structures in the aeronautic field should be strong, stiff, and light, achieved through high-performance and low-weight materials as well as smart design. Isogrid structures with lattice frames are an interesting solution. A comparative analysis of lattice-stiffened cylinders made of composite materials or titanium alloy showed similar strength and stiffness, but composite materials had the best specific performance due to their lightweight nature.
MATERIALS AND MANUFACTURING PROCESSES
(2022)
Article
Mechanics
Costanzo Bellini, Rosario Borrelli, Vittorio Di Cocco, Stefania Franchitti, Francesco Iacoviello, Luca Sorrentino
Summary: Lattice structures have high stiffness and lightweight properties, making them suitable for aerospace applications. This study compared the bending properties of two sandwich structures with lattice cores made of titanium alloy. The all-titanium structure had higher bending stiffness, but the hybrid structure was deemed more performant when weight was equal.
ENGINEERING FRACTURE MECHANICS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Mechanical
C. Bellini, F. Berto, V. Di Cocco, F. Iacoviello
Summary: Shape memory alloys have the ability to recover their initial shape due to their memory property of changing microstructure. This study proposes an integrated microstructural-mechanical model for equiatomic NiTi shape memory alloy.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FATIGUE
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Francesco Di Caprio, Stefania Franchitti, Rosario Borrelli, Costanzo Bellini, Vittorio Di Cocco, Luca Sorrentino
Summary: Metal lattice structures produced by additive techniques have high structural efficiency. This study presents a finite element modeling technique for lattice structures using beam and shell elements, with low computational cost. Simple mathematical relationships based on experimental-CAD-FEM comparisons are provided for estimating numerical model error. Validation through bending tests showed excellent agreement with experimental results, with a maximum error of about 3%.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Costanzo Bellini, Vittorio Di Cocco, Francesco Iacoviello, Larisa Patricia Mocanu
Summary: The present work focuses on analyzing the failure mode and fracture process induced by flexural load in Fibre Metal Laminates (FMLs). The influence of the connection layer on the fracture mode was investigated. The results showed that the type of interface affects the strength and fracture mode of the laminates.
FRATTURA ED INTEGRITA STRUTTURALE-FRACTURE AND STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Costanzo Bellini, Vittorio Di Cocco, Francesco Iacoviello, Larisa Patricia Mocanu
Summary: Hot dip galvanizing is a cost-effective method for protecting ferrous alloys against corrosion due to sacrificial protection. The study on mechanical characteristics of steel plates coated with five different zinc alloy molten baths revealed that fractures mostly arise at the substrate-coating interface. Aluminium coating exhibits ductility, while Zn-Ti coating shows the emergence of a new compact phase.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Costanzo Bellini, Rosario Borrelli, Francesco Di Caprio, Vittorio Di Cocco, Stefania Franchitti, Francesco Iacoviello, Luca Sorrentino
Summary: Metal lattice structures manufactured using additive techniques have gained attention due to their high structural efficiency. This paper focuses on characterising the dimensional accuracy of Ti6Al4V octet truss lattice structures manufactured using Electron Beam Melting (EBM) technology. The study finds that EBM-manufactured beams are generally thinner than the designed ones, and the shape of the section varies depending on the growth orientation.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Costanzo Bellini, Rosario Borrelli, Francesco Di Caprio, Vittorio Di Cocco, Stefania Franchitti, Francesco Iacoviello, Carmine Pirozzi, Luca Sorrentino
Summary: In this article, small trusses with different diameters were produced through electron beam melting (EBM) by varying the process parameters, like the orientation and the position in the build chamber. The diameter of the trusses was evaluated and compared with the nominal one. The study found that the orientation in the chamber had a significant influence on the geometrical error and the nominal diameter, while the position in the building chamber had no influence. Furthermore, the highest deviation was observed for the specimens oriented at 0 degrees and those with a diameter of 1 mm, and a similar result was found for the ovalisation of the truss section.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Costanzo Bellini, Vittorio Di Cocco, Francesco Iacoviello, Larisa Patricia Mocanu, Gianluca Parodo, Luca Sorrentino, Sandro Turchetta
Summary: Fibre Metal Laminates (FMLs) are lightweight materials with high stiffness, fatigue resistance, and damage tolerance. However, the polymeric matrix and adhesive at the metal/composite interface can be weak points, especially in hot or water environments. In this study, aluminium/carbon fibre FML specimens were aged under different hydrothermal conditions and subjected to mechanical testing. The results showed that submersion in saltwater was detrimental to the specimens, while high and low temperature cycles increased the maximum load due to resin post-curing and dissolution of salt crystals in subsequent aging stages in distilled water.
Article
Optics
Angela Brindisi, Cristian Vendittozzi, Costanzo Bellini, Vittorio Di Cocco, Lidia Travascio, Luigi Di Palma, Marika Belardo, Antonio Concilio
Summary: The Smart Landing Gear system for the ANGELA project measures strain on landing gear structure during landings and maintains operational efficiency. Fiber Bragg Gratings (FBG) are being evaluated for in-flight testing, specifically in terms of FBG bonding and strain transmission. A fatigue-like test was conducted on the bonding layer to determine the suitability of FBG sensors for the landing gear's operational life-cycle and to identify the best fiber-coating and bonding agents. This document presents the execution and results of the fatigue-like test, which serves as preparatory work for the Smart Landing System's preliminary design activities.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Costanzo Bellini, Vittorio Di Cocco, Francesco Iacoviello, Luca Sorrentino
Summary: The thermomechanical interactions between different materials in a hybrid laminate create residual stresses during manufacturing, leading to deformation upon extraction. These stresses and deformations pose challenges for assembly, requiring predictive tools for mitigation. In this study, a numerical model was developed and validated for determining residual stresses, emphasizing deformation near the laminate's vertex.
FORCES IN MECHANICS
(2021)
Proceedings Paper
Engineering, Mechanical
Costanzo Bellini, Vittorio Di Cocco, Francesco Iacoviello, Luca Sorrentino
1ST MEDITERRANEAN CONFERENCE ON FRACTURE AND STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY (MEDFRACT1)
(2020)
Proceedings Paper
Engineering, Mechanical
Costanzo Bellini
1ST VIRTUAL CONFERENCE ON STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY (VCSI1)
(2020)
