During a structural level finite element simulation of mechanical loading of the short fiber filled plastic, the predicted deformation of the part is based on the stiffness of the homogenized composite material. However, in order to predict plasticity and rupture of the matrix material, Helius PFA must decompose the finite element code's homogenized composite strain into the average strain in the matrix constituent material.
Thus, the multiscale material model must be capable of homogenizing the response of the evolving heterogeneous microstructure into composite level stress, strain, and stiffness in addition to decomposing the composite level strain into the average strain state in the plastic matrix constituent material.
The structure of this multiscale material model is shown schematically on the next two pages.