Work

Model-Based Engineering Process Automation from Design to Manufacturing of Fiber Composite Helicopter Structures Using Graph-Based Design Languages

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The design and manufacturing of carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) structures in aerospace require balancing high structural performance with cost-efficient, reproducible production. Conventional design and planning methods are often fragmented across disciplines, causing data discontinuities and limited traceability. This paper introduces a graph-based design language (GBDL) information architecture that integrates CFRP design and manufacturing within a unified, model-based framework. The approach formalizes engineering knowledge through process ontologies and graph-based data models linking geometry, material, tooling, and process parameters in a consistent, machine-interpretable form. Each step, from geometry derivation and structural design to prepreg hand lay-up and automated fiber placement, is represented within a shared design graph to ensure data consistency, transparency, and automated assessment of lead time, labor, cost, waste, and energy consumption. Although current implementations address selected use cases with partially automated interfaces, the architecture establishes a scalable foundation for full interoperability. A helicopter-frame case study demonstrates the applicability and adaptability of the method.

Source: Aerospace

DOI: 10.3390/aerospace13040311

Authors: Claudia Schopper, Dominik Schopper, Maximilian Holland, Julian Dinkelacker, Julian Schuster, Stephan Rudolph

Institutions: University of Stuttgart, Fraunhofer Institute for Casting, Composite and Processing Technology IGCV

Language: English

Topic: Manufacturing Process and Optimization

Subfield: Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896