When fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) components are designed, it is very important to ensure that textiles are formed into complex 3D geometries without folds, and that the reinforcing structure is oriented appropriately. Most research in this context is focused on finite element (FE) forming simulations and the required characterization of textile reinforcements. However, the early stage of the design of FRPs, where kinematic draping simulations are used, is barely considered. In particular, the need for a critical shear angle for the execution and evaluation of kinematic draping simulations is often neglected. This paper presents an extended picture frame test stand with an optical device recording shear-induced deformations with the help of a laser line emitter. Associated hardware and software for detecting and quantifying the fold formation during a picture frame test were developed. With the additional recorded information, a material-specific critical shear angle can be determined, material behaviors can be compared, and FE-based simulation methods can be evaluated. This innovative test stand and the associated software tools will help engineers to decide on suitable materials and improve transparency in the early stages of the design process.

This paper presents preliminary experimental results on the influence on the aerodynamic drag of a cylinder from the cylinder type (i.e., rigid or soft) and its textile surface. Both a rigid cylinder and a soft-body cylinder, with a gelatin layer, each with five different textile surfaces were measured in the wind tunnel using force measurement technology. The drag coefficient was determined for several Reynolds numbers. The study shows that the elasticity of a cylinder has a significant influence on the drag force and the airflow type. However, the influence of the soft-body cylinder depends on the respective fabric. With the given measurements, no exact statements can yet be made to quantify the influence. This influence must be studied independently and in conjunction with the textile surface in order to gain understanding of the overall system of airflow, textile and elastic body.