The steady state and transient behaviour of two-dimensional braiding

Two-dimensional braiding of fibre-reinforced composite components is a promising process for automation. Control of the braiding equipment when the braid angle is changing (transient braiding) is currently achieved either by trial and error or by using simplistic theories. One major contribution of this work is the development of a device and associated mathematical model that allows measurement of the braid angle on-line. This work has also explained the discrepancy between desired and measured braid angles reported in the literature. Finally, a mathematical model to predict the structure of the braid during transient braiding was developed. The experimental data presented strengthen the validity of the analytical expressions developed.