Optimization of thermoplastic composites process parameters based on robotic fiber placement

Abstract In robot-driven composite manufacturing, managing the temperature field is crucial for determining the strength of the molding. This paper presents a process simulation analysis of the temperature field during the robot placement of thermoplastic composite materials on curved surfaces. The paper establishes an optimized temperature field model for the lay-up process on curved surfaces. Innovatively considering the influence of different plys on the heating temperature, this model can calculate the optimal heating temperature parameters for various ply layers. A two-dimensional heat transfer model is created using APDL command flow in ANSYS, and the mesh is partitioned. Transient thermal analysis is then conducted utilizing the “birth and death” element technique. Analyzing the effects of mold temperature, robot placement speed, and heating temperature on the temperature field of the first ply helps to understand their impact on multiple plys in the placement of curved surfaces. This analysis provides insights into how these factors influence the overall process.