Creating a Top Surface from the Virtual Stackings

You can generate a top surface from virtual stackings in one shot. From the virtual grid design, Top Surface from Virtual Stacking analyzes the plies to generate, identifies iso-thickness areas, automatically creates junction lines, and provides a top surface.

Notes:
  • This task is available in Composites Design.
  • You must have created virtual stackings.

  1. From the Solid and Top Surface from Plies section of the action bar, click Top Surface From Virtual Stacking .
  2. Select one or several virtual stackings lying on the same surface.
  3. If plies have already been generated from the virtual stackings, select From Generated Plies.

    The top surface matches the plies.

  4. Otherwise, select From User Definition and select an algorithm.


    • Weight saving manages the drop-off pattern locally:

      The closest ramp support curves are used for the plies corresponding to the longest ramp entity. The drop-off pattern is managed ramp entity by ramp entity.


    • Minimum Crossing manages the drop-off pattern globally:



    • Minimum crossing & Weight Saving manages the drop-off pattern from three criteria, respectively length, height and surface (L*H).


    • Drop-off order
      • Uses the layer level of each virtual sequence as a drop-off order value to stagger plies. Layer levels must be unique. For more information, see About Laminates.
      • Or uses the Drop-off order defined on the ramp support. For more information, see Creating Ramp Supports.

      Drop-off pattern is not available with this option.

  5. Optional: Select a drop-off pattern.

    The drop-off pattern takes the orientation of plies into account.

    Note: When working in Main Stacking Sequence mode, the layer key of each virtual sequence is used as drop-off order value. The drop-off pattern choice is disabled.

  6. Optional: Select the Invert Draping Direction check box.

    This check box is used mainly for plies generated with Main Stacking Sequence.

    The computed top surface or solid represents the Outer Mold Line.
  7. Click Compute Analysis.
    1. Select required display options.
    A view of Iso-Thickness Areas (in green, with height), junction lines (in white) and ITPs if any (in yellow) is displayed according to the selected options.

A top surface is generated. It is editable for update.