An efficient pre-analysis and optimization generation method for reference curves of automated fiber placement path planning

Complex curved composite components often rely on multiple reference curve algorithms for path planning in automated fiber placement. However, the reference curves are typically manually drawn. Moreover, designing the reference curves follows an iterative planning-analysis-improvement process, which can be inefficient. A new approach for the automatic pre-analysis and optimized generation of reference curves for fiber placement is proposed in this paper to enhance the efficiency of reference curve analysis and generation. Firstly, a pre-analysis algorithm for reference curves based on triangular meshes is proposed. This algorithm analyzes the theoretical geodesic curvature and angular deviation of the path before its planning. Subsequently, a comprehensive evaluation index for reference curve generation is formulated based on the pre-analysis algorithm, and the reference curve is optimized using genetic algorithms. The results demonstrate that the pre-analysis algorithm accurately computes the steering radius distribution of the path. Areas with over-limit steering radius can be eliminated while maintaining angular deviations within 10° by utilizing optimized reference curves for path planning.