C J McPherson

Energy method for modelling delamination buckling in geometrically constrained systems

Abstract Delamination buckling analysis of laminates is of considerable interest to the mechanical and materials engineering sectors, as well as having wider applications in geology and civil engineering. With advances in computing power, the ability to model ever increasingly complex problems at more detailed levels becomes more of a reality. However, many of the common finite element packages, with the exception of all but the most specialized, do not perform particularly well where complex non-linear problems are dealt with. In many cases, these packages can fail to determine the full range of solutions or accurately predict the properties and geometry of the final state. This is particularly the case where large deformations and buckling of laminates are considered. Because of this, many researchers prefer to use what they perceive to be more reliable techniques, such as the symbolic computation of the underlying differential equations, rather than finite element approaches. The use of finite element packages is further frustrated by the steep learning curve and implicit restrictions imposed by using third-party software. In this paper, a finite element approach and an energy formulation method are considered and used to model the delamination buckling in a geometrically constrained system. These methods are compared with experimental results and their relative merits are discussed. In particular, the accuracy and the ability to represent the geometry of the buckled system are discussed. Both the finite element approach and the energy formulation are described in detail and the numerical results are compared.

An energy-based approach for modelling the behaviour of packaging material during processing

Abstract This paper deals with the investigation of improved methods for considering machine-material interaction during the design and production of packaging machinery. Minimum energy principles are used to create a theoretical model of the response of the packaging material during processing. The complex non-linear properties of the packaging material are encapsulated in parametric models generated through analysis of the physical measurement of the changing properties during processing. These two techniques are incorporated into a software model that represents the behaviour of a skillet during the erection process. This software model considers the material, the pack design and the machine system. The overall modelling approach is validated by comparison with a physical system, which shows a good correlation with the theoretical model.

The performance envelope of forming shoulders and implications for design and manufacture

Abstract The production of packaging machinery is a highly competitive global market driven by the ever-increasing demands of customers and legislation. The fundamental design principles of many packaging machines are the result of incremental improvements made over the last few decades. This paper looks at the underlying theory for forming shoulders and, starting with previously published results, determines the performance envelope relating to certain critical parameters. The findings are discussed in the light of their relevance for the creation of new designs.