Virtual testing of realistic aerospace composite structures

The feasibility of using simulation of component tests to failure is examined from the view of using this as a design tool to reduce time and costs for future aircraft designs. All aspects are considered, that is modelling correctly the physics of failure mechanisms, having an acceptable CPU time, and ease of interfacing with existing CAE systems for generating models and processing the results. By looking at many benchmarks (including an industrial component) with experimental validation, it is concluded that simulation is now a feasible design tool and that many more searching examples will lend credibility to this strategy for both manufacturers and certification authorities.