Frequently Asked Questions
What are the differences between LAP and CoDA?
LAP is a tool strictly for the analysis of composite laminates of infinite
length and width. It lets the user apply various types of hygrothermal and
mechanical loading on the laminate, and it gives in-depth information about
effective stiffness and coefficients, as well as through-thickness stresses and
strains. It can also handle non-linear stiffness properties, offers laminate
design functionality and calculates notched compressive strength.
CoDA has 7 independent modules:
- the Panels module analyses composite panels of fixed dimensions and subject to
boundary conditions, under out-of-plane loads.
- the Beams module analyses composite beams.
- the Laminates module calculates the effective stiffness and in-plane strength
of a laminate. No through-thickness stresses or strains are given.
- the Joints module analyses composite double-lap bolted or bonded joints.
- the Synthesiser allows for the calculation of composite properties based on
those of the constituent fibre and resin.
- the Flanges module analyses curved beams.
- the PREDICT module analyses the crack formation and propagation in
laminate layers, but also synthesises composite layer properties.
As shown, the only common area between the two packages is in the calculation of
effective in-plane stiffness and strength for laminates.
Think of LAP and CoDA as complementary. They have been
designed to work stand-alone, but also together. They can read each
other's data files, and data objects can even be dragged and dropped
between them.
Can the Laminate Tools modules work independently?
The View module is necessary for the product to
function. The other modules are optional and independent of each other.
Can the LAP modules work independently?
The Basic module is necessary for the product to
function. The other modules are optional and independent of each other.
Can the CoDA modules work independently?
Each CoDA module is independent and does not require input from other
modules. Of course, it could be desirable to synthesise material properties (Synthesiser
module) and use those properties in other modules. Or you could solve for the
effective properties of a laminate (Laminates module) and then treat those as a
material in the Beams module. But none of this interaction is necessary for the
operation of any individual module. If you wish to use other software to
generate material and laminate mechanical properties then you can input those
directly into CoDA for use with the Panels, Beams or Joints modules.
Is CoDA suitable for conventional materials (e.g. metals)?
Yes, the Panels, Beams, Joints and
Flanges modules are perfectly suitable for use with
conventional materials.
How can I analyse sandwich configurations?
Both LAP and CoDA can analyse sandwich configurations.
The CoDA Panels and Beams modules include separate analyses for sandwich
configurations, also covering skin buckling modes. Elsewhere, the skin and core layer
properties are simply defined as orthotropic material layers. Transverse shear stress
deflections are taken into account only for CoDA beams.
How can I analyse woven fabrics?
Both LAP and CoDA can use fabric layers in laminates if the fabric materials
are defined as simple orthotropic materials.
How do I order your software?
To place your order,
contact us for a firm quotation.
The most popular payment method is by raising a Corporate Purchase Order for
payment by 30-day invoice. This is normally accepted, subject to approval.
Credit card payment may also be possible, please call us on
+44-20-89876056.
Orders are accepted from all countries. Agents may be available locally. Quotations, invoicing and payment in currencies
other than pound sterling can be arranged on request.
What are the delivery charges?
Delivery charges vary depending on destination, please
enquire.
What are the terms of your Software User Licence?
The text for the user licence accompanying each product is available on
request. In brief, you are allowed to use the software simultaneously on as many
computers as the number of licences you have purchased. Site licences do not
have this restriction within one site.
The user licence is normally indefinite. Optional maintenance for receiving
regular version updates is available, please enquire.
Can I install the software on a network?
Yes, the software can be installed on a network for easier access. The number
of simultaneous users cannot exceed the number of licences purchased.
I use a previous version of your software, why should I upgrade?
There are significant updates between versions, which are indicated in the
detailed description page for each product. There are also significant discounts
for upgrades.
I employ custom failure criteria, do you support that?
The LAP Additional Failure Criteria module as well as
the Laminate Tools Check module offer this
functionality. In addition, we can carry out any kind of customisation for you, including failure
criteria, specific results, application interfaces, etc. Just let us know what
you need and we'll come back with the details.