Some Modeling Considerations for Rubber-Like Materials in the Development of Software for Computer-Aided Design

The mechanical properties of rubber-like, or elastomeric, materials are much different than those of metals. Software for computer-aided design with rubber-like materials must be developed which account for these properties.

This paper first discusses the difference between models for elastomers and metals. It then considers the existing models which can be included in software, and the corresponding material properties required as input data. Finally, it discusses the development of improved models.