Geometrical Modeling of the Yarn Paths in Three-dimensional Braided Structures

Abstract

A circular braiding process is adapted to produce three-dimensional shapes by braiding over a contoured mandrel. The present work deals with the simulation of various braided structures. The simulated structures are based on geometrical models developed for yarns on different shapes of mandrels. The geometry of a braided structure depends upon the machine parameters, such as number of yarn carriers, rotational speed of the carriers, take-up speed, and the effective perimeter of the mandrel cross section. Virtual reality modeling language (VRML) has been employed as a visualization tool to simulate these geometrical models on a predefined mandrel geometry. Models relate to the machine speeds and a number of machine settings. The path of the yarn on the mandrel is dependent upon the shape of the mandrel, i.e., if it is circular then it will be in the form of a helix or if it is a cubical body then it will be in the form of straight lines. An expert system has been generated to take into account all the parameters interfacing with VRML to simulate the braid geometry. A comparison is also made between the experimental and simulated structures.

Numerical and Experimental Investigation of the Hydrostatic Performance of Fibre Reinforced Tubes

“…Both of these occurrences will cause variations in braid angle. Rawal et al identify four braid formation variables which combine to define a braided structure consisting of; the carrier speed about the braid deck (angular velocity), the take up speed, the mandrel cross-section and the number of yarns used [16].…”

Finite element simulation of the braiding process for arbitrary mandrel shapes

“…Several analytical models of the braiding process are presented in [10][11][12], predicting yarn alignment for varying velocities using simple (or simplified) mandrel geometries. Physical interactions between all bodies are neglected.…”

Prediction of Yarn Paths in Braided Structures Formed on a Square Pyramid

“…This has been achieved by employing three-dimensional (3D) mandrels, where one can produce 3D textile preforms for such applications. In our previous study, we have predicted and simulated the yarn paths on various 3D mandrels including cylinder, square prism, and cones with circular and elliptical cross sections [3]. Here, the path of the yarn on the mandrel is dependent upon the shape of mandrel, i.e., if it is circular then it is in the form of a helix or if it is a cubical body then it is in the form of straight lines.…”

“…In our previous study, we have predicted and simulated the yarns paths on various 3D mandrels, including cylinder, square prism, and cones with circular and elliptical cross-sections (Rawal, A., Potluri, P. and Steele, C. (2005). Geometrical Modeling of the Yarn Paths in ThreeDimensional Branded Structure, Journal of Industrial Textiles, 34(2): 115-135.).…”