Structural carbon fiber reinforced plastic parts are typically produced through autoclave processing for high-performance aerospace applications, necessitating high quality and robust manufacturing processes. Manufacturing process simulation plays a crucial role in investigating physical effects and mechanisms, increasingly used to predict and optimize manufacturing for superior part quality at reduced costs. Given the complex manufacturing environment with multi-physics characteristics, there is a pressing need for an efficient, cost-effective numerical methodology supported by systematic study. This thesis addresses the process modeling, simulation, thermal measurement, and optimization in autoclave processing for composite manufacturing. It offers accurate and efficient thermal analysis and optimization, enhancing process control and ensuring the quality of composite parts. The developed framework is applicable to larger dimensions and full-scale tools in aerospace structures, enabling quick delivery of production guidelines and optimization strategies. This methodology significantly reduces costs in the design and manufacturing phases, making composite manufacturing more efficient and economical.
