Multi-instrumented technical evaluator for the analysis of composites structures, numerical and experimental approach

In this paper, the Multi-Instrumented Technological Evaluator (MITE) is presented as an alternative approach to study the mechanical performance of composite structures. The goal is to have an enrichment of the calculus-testing dialogue by means of the interaction of four complementary divisions: the composite structure, the multi-axial testing machine, the numerical models and the multi-sensor instrumentation. As a first proposition, the MITE suggests the testing of a carbon-epoxy composite plate with two drop-offs under combined loads. By means of FEM models, the kinematics of the testing machine is applied to the composite plate to have a first numerical approach of its behavior. Then, the experimental campaign is done with multi-instrumentation sources such as strain gauges and digital image correlation. The strain values calculated by FEM and the experimental strain data acquired by gauges and DIC are confronted in order to understand the main fracture mechanisms on the drop-off zones, to determine the accuracy of the measurements techniques and to assure that a correct calculus-testing dialogue is achieved.