Mesoscale finite element model for calculating deformations of laminate composite constructions

This article shows the methodology of building finite element models of composite constructions made of laminate composites reinforced with carbon fibre fabric (carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer). The models use a repeatable microstructure of a composite - a repeated unit cell - which is a three-dimensional truss built with one-dimensional beam finite elements. Thanks to this fact, the models reflect the internal structure of the composite. The model constants have been experimentally determined. Therefore, the influence of production technology of the composite on its mechanical properties has been considered. The modelling methodology has been used to calculate deflections of exemplary composite constructions. The results have been experimentally verified.