WoundSIM software tool simplifies design and simulation of composite pressure vessels

WoundSIM is a new software tool targeting the design, simulation and optimization of composite-overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs). While it is primarily used in the automotive and aerospace industries, it has gained usage with the U.S. Navy, various research centers, the education sector and for hydrogen storage as a rapid and efficient tank design process. It is developed, supported and maintained by Dassault Systèmes (Vélizy-Villacoublay, France) Simulia development partners QustomApps (Ponder, Texas, U.S.) and S Vertical (Châtenay-Malabry, France). The first beta version was released in 2019, with additional features to be included in 2022.

Under WoundSIM, a graphical interface is used to instantaneously view the composite layup as the table of composite layers is defined. Layer thickness buildup is automatically calculated, along with the varying wind angles. Smeared material properties are also computed and assigned throughout the COPV, and an integrated finite element analysis (FEA) software translator enables users to generate a run-ready FEA model to assess the thermal and mechanical responses of the COPV.

Principle WoundSIM features noted include:

• Enhanced layer thickness buildup for better correlation against geometry of produced tanks;
• Comprehensive design parameters enabling a quick variation of layer shape;
• A comprehensive, standalone user interface;
• GUI short time response (<1 sec/30 layers);
• Smart layup rendering for easy layer selection and identification;
• Rapid, fully automated tank FE model generation and post-processing;
• Full compatibility with Dassault Systèmes’ Simulia Abaqus Unified FEA;
• Automated Abaqus WCM models conversion;
• Compatibility with Simulia Isight for advanced parametric optimization;
• Public XML API to ensure compatibility with other winding software or customer’s in-house tools and formulations;
• Integrated tank parametric optimization capabilities to reduce tank weight;
• And integrated models VS tests calibration.

After the layup definition and visualization in the WoundSIM interface, users can generate the reservoir geometry and the corresponding FEA models in order to perform all needed simulations. Generated models include tank layer geometry and enhanced reservoir mesh generation; transformed material properties; automated assembly with other reservoir components; loads and boundary condition definitions; and the possibility to generate 2D, 3D, shell and solid models. Abaqus/CAE models can also be edited and enriched by the user. 

All required load cases to design the tank can be run on the generated FE models, including static/dynamic burst pressure, heat transfer analysis, coupled temperature displacement, dynamic drop tests and impacts and cyclic and fatigue assessment. Fail stress and fail strain parameters can also be included in the FE analysis for a realistic prediction of composites layers failure.

Moreover, the WoundSIM-to-Abaqus interface provides a number of seamless post-processing capabilities such as specialized path plotting and contour plotting tools for quick tank response assessment. WoundSIM includes a compiled user subroutine library that gives access to all composite-specific output post-processing quantities such us winding angles, fiber matrix stresses and strains and damage parameters.  

Finally, WoundSIM offers advanced engineering capabilities and integrated algorithms that allow several capabilities for composite reservoir designers and simulation engineers. Some capabilities involve parametric design, Design of Experiment, batch computing, reservoir geometry variability study, correlation to other winding software, models correlation with produced reservoirs and reservoirs images processing.

View this link for more information on WoundSIM.