Composite Structures Skill

Purpose

Enable expert composite aerospace structure design and analysis including laminate optimization, failure prediction, and manufacturing considerations.

Capabilities

• Laminate analysis and optimization
• Classical laminate theory (CLT) calculations
• Ply failure criteria (Tsai-Wu, Hashin, LaRC)
• Stacking sequence optimization
• Manufacturing constraint consideration
• Repair analysis and substantiation
• Allowables database management
• Impact damage assessment

Usage Guidelines

• Apply appropriate failure criteria based on loading and material system
• Consider manufacturing constraints in laminate design (ply drops, tool access)
• Use building block approach for allowables development
• Account for environmental effects (temperature, moisture)
• Design for inspectability and repairability
• Document material and process specifications completely

Dependencies

• HyperSizer
• ESACOMP
• Laminate tools
• NASTRAN

Process Integration

• AE-009: Composite Structure Design