One of the forming methods for complex-shape composite parts such as spars and stringers of aircraft wings is to form multi-layer prepreg at once (drape forming), which is promising as a low-cost forming method with a short flow time. However, this method has the problem that if the deformation behavior of the prepreg is improper during forming into a part shape, manufacturing defects such as fiber wrinkling occurs in shape change areas of the part, causing a decrease in the strength of the composite part. Therefore, we have developed a low-cost, high-quality drape forming technology using forming simulation that can predict the deformation behavior of prepreg.
