A Cost Model for 3D Woven Preforms

Lack of cost information is a barrier to acceptance 3D woven preforms as reinforcements for composite materials, compared with 2D preforms. A parametric, resource-based technical model (TCM) was developed based on novel relationship equating manufacturing time and preform complexity. Manufacturing time, therefore cost, found scale complexity seventeen bespoke manufactured Two sub-models were derived Weavebird loom Jacquard loom. For each loom, there strong correlation between time. large, highly complex preform, the more efficient, so will be much lower than Weavebird. Provided production continuous, learning, either by human agency or an autonomous control algorithm, can reduce one both looms commercially acceptable level. The TCM framework could incorporate appropriate learning curves digital twin/multi-variate analysis that per fabrics customised products low rates may predicted greater accuracy. accurate highlight resources such tooling, labour material targeted reduction.