KTex family tools aim to facilitate finite element modeling of fabrics. Most finite element codes offer multiple possibilities for representing these materials on a macroscopic scale. Fewer possibilities are available when it comes to representing these materials at the mesoscopic scale, that is to say at the fiber scale, and representing the weaving of the latter. KTex family tools offer routines adapted to the modeling of these materials on this scale. The family is divided into 4 modules.
This tool allows you to build the mesh of a 1D, 2D or 3D fabric. The user informs the size of the fibers, the spacing between them in the different directions, as well as a drilling card. The latter is in the form of a matrix which describes the path followed by the different fibers. The routine then automatically generates the mesh of the fibers making up the fabric. The user can choose between a 2D mesh (with quadrangular elements) or a 3D mesh (with hexahedral elements). The user can also choose the size of the mesh fabric.
This tool makes it possible to set up a simulation of tissue compaction between a mold and a counter-mold. The user chooses a finite element model to use for the fabric, and a finite element model to use for the mold. The tool then automatically generates the counter-mold and the compaction parameters (the initial positions of the different components, the compaction speeds, the interfaces between the different components …). The user can then export the model to the solver of his choice and launch the calculation.
This tool simulates the filament winding process. The user enters ribbon and core geometries, as well as a target winding angle. From this information, the software proposes compatible winding patterns. The user must then choose one. At this time, two possibilities are proposed. The first consists in predicting the placement of the ribbon on the mandrel in order to visualize the ribbon crossing zones. The second is to set up a finite element model simulating the placement of the ribbon during winding. The model resembles the previous one except that successive pressure loads, applied chronologically to the different pieces of ribbon, make it possible to represent the real crossings of the ribbon and to obtain a more realistic geometry of the final part. This option, unlike the first, involves exporting the model to a finite element solver and launching the calculation to obtain the results.
The purpose of this independent tool is to calculate the homogenized macroscopic mechanical properties of a composite fold. From the mechanical properties of the fibers and the matrix, as well as the weaving pattern, the software calculates the mechanical properties of the fold, whether it is a 1D, 2D or 3D fabric.
