DrapeFix

In common production types of component parts in the sector of Fiber-reinforced composites (FRC) textile layers are connected by binder on the whole area before being formed. This leads to a high flexural stiffness that requires great forming force and therefore appropriate machines and tools to work the preform.

In order to counteract this disadvantage, the project DrapeFix is determined to reduce these forming forces to 50% by applying the binder locally. The resulting reduction of binder and the use of cost-saving machines reduce the manufacturing costs.

Based on the desired geometry, local paths of binder are calculated by an evolutionary algorithm. These paths shall allow forming of the desired geometry while prevent displacement of fibres, reducing defects in the material and sustain resistance against shear forces. This approach allows the optimization of the binder application process and keeps the advantages of the all-over application of binder.