Composites Modeler
State-of-the-art fiber simulation and model building,
directly integrated with the Layup Pipeline
Composites Modeler for
Abaqus/CAE (CMA)
complements and extends the
powerful ply modeling features
in Abaqus/CAE by providing
proven fiber simulation
capabilities, advanced model
building and solid element
support — all seamlessly
integrated within Abaqus/CAE.
Furthermore, direct integration
with Simulayt’s Layup Pipeline
allows direct linkage with Design
and Manufacture functions
across the enterprise.
Simulayt develops the Layup
Technology which includes
advanced fiber simulation
capabilities. This technology has
been developed continuously
since 1992 for the aerospace
composites industry, and is
now used extensively in many
other applications utilising fiber
reinforcement. Simulayt is
focused on meeting the evolving
needs of the advanced
composites market.
Brookwood House, Brookwood, Woking, Surrey,
GU24 0NX, UK
Tel. +44 (0) 1483 476521 fax. +44 (0) 1483 475519
sales@simulayt.com
www.simulayt.com
for Abaqus/CAE
The fiber simulation ensures
that unmanufacturable plies
cannot be specified, right at
the beginning of the
process. This avoids costly
re-engineering late in the
development cycle.
Manufacturing data is
generated to ensure that
final part matches the
analysis model.
Now, continuously-varying
fiber orientations and ply
thicknesses can be fed directly
to Abaqus’ nonlinear implicit
and explicit solvers for detailed
a n a ly s is . The r e s u lt a n t
orientation of plies on each
element reflects the simulated
and actual fiber architecture
f a it h f u lly . T h is e ns ur es
simulations of unprecedented
fidelity.
State-of-the-art fiber simulation, proven
since 1992.
Directly transfers accurate fiber angles and
ply thicknesses to Abaqus simulations for
unprecedented accuracy.
Allows rapid review and modification of
the composites model for rapid design
improvement.
Automated support of continuum shell and
solid models by extrusion and filling
Generates manufacturing data to en-
sure that the analysed model matches
the final structure.
Direct integration with the Layup Pipeline for
seamless communication across the enter-
prise.
Prevents specification of plies and
structures that cannot be manufac-
tured, avoiding costly mistakes.
Improves model fidelity and reduces
setup time to allow rapid design im-
provement.
Allows seamless analysis, design and
manufacture integration across the
enterprise to promote development
efficiency.
Abaqus/CAE 6.7 or later
Proven Fiber Simulation

The Simulayt fiber simulation technology is

routinely used to analyse draping over
complex surfaces, particularly in the
aerospace, helicopter and motorsport
industries. These awkward surfaces continue
to drive the development of Simulayt
simulation solutions as composite structures
become increasingly sophisticated.
Solid Element Support
Instantaneous Flat Pattern
Composites Modeler supports detailed
Simulayt’s proven technology generates analysis using laminated solid elements by:
cutter-ready flat patterns instantaneously. –Extrusion to create solids from a layup
These can be displayed on-screen to based on shell elements
improve the interpretation of the simulation –Filling existing solid elements with ply based
results and aid process optimisation. properties.

Seed Curve Constraint

The seed curve capability allows warp, weft or

Ply based Post-processing
bias directions to be constrained along a curve.
This allows accurate and realistic simulation of
the application of plies over surfaces such as C- CMA supports the visualisation of ply-by-ply
section spars and oval window frames. analysis results. Orientation result vectors
can be verified against draping directions.
Order of Drape Specification

CMA allows the user to specify the order of

draping over multiple regions to bring a new
level of accuracy to fiber simulation.

Flexible Dart Handling Compatible with Layup Technology

The sophisticated algorithms allow the
specification of plies with darted boundaries.
Analysis Properties
CMA creates analysis properties
corresponding to the ply layup within user-
defined tolerances. Properties are saved in
the form of sections or the new Composite
Layup entity within Abaqus/CAE.
Finally, direct access to Simulayt’s Layup
Pipeline allows seamless integration of
analysis, design and manufacturing for
composites structures. For example, a model
developed in CATIA V5 can be transferred
seamlessly to Abaqus/CAE structural analysis
and certification. By transferring the model
unambiguously, design iterations can be made
quickly to improve the efficiency of the entire
development process.