Experimental device for the preforming step of the RTM process

This paper concerns the development of an experimental device which is able to form very complex double curved geometry. Objectives are to analyze the evolution of the woven preform during the forming process. This device contains one mechanical module containing the classical tools in forming process, (punch, blank holder, and open-die), and one optical module to measure the 3D-deformed shape and the distribution of local deformations, like shear angles of the woven reinforcement during all the process. Experimental results are obtained with an interlock carbon woven fabric, used in aeronautical applications. Wrinkling and buckling will be analyzed at the global scale of the piece. The evolution of the shear angle will be presented at local scale (on face, or edges of the geometry).