Analysis and Stack-Up Sequence Optimization for Fiber Reinforced Composite Hood

In today’s cost competitive environment, automotive companies are moving towards lightweight materials for reducing carbon footprint, increasing fuel economy and cost benefits. Fiber reinforced plastics (FRP) is one of the most attractive option considering its high strength to weight ratio. The advantage of continuous FRP composites is tailorability according to different performance requirements.

This paper will focus on finite element analysis and optimization of automotive hood structure made up of continuous carbon fiber reinforced composite with epoxy resin based matrix. Composite hood structure is analyzed using detailed orthotropic composite laminate models and an appropriate composite material failure theory. Strength of FRPs is maneuvered by orientations of the fiber plies. Considering this, stack-up sequence optimization is performed considering bending, torsional stiffness and fundamental modes in dynamic analysis. Comparison of optimized composite hood with a metal hood shows great potential of FRP composites in weight saving with good performance.