Algorithms for Constructing Initial and Offset Path of Automated Fiber Placement for Complex Double-Curved Surfaces

Abstract

The directional deviation and wrinkling deformation of the fibers need to be strictly controlled within a specific range to guarantee the final formed composite component s quality. This work proposed a novel method for generating an initial path that is proportionally adjustable between the fixed-angle and the geodesic direction to satisfy the fiber directional deviation and wrinkling deformation constraints. The paths under multiple reference lines are better suited to component geometry than paths under a single reference line. In the path offset process, a parallel equidistant offset algorithm considering the design and manufacturing constraints was proposed, which avoids the generation of unqualified paths. Simulation results showed that the proposed path generation methods have better design flexibility and higher path planning efficiency.