CADWIND is an advanced process simulation software for filament winding of composite materials, developed by Material B.V. (Belgium). It simulates the winding process on virtual mandrels and machines, enabling precise calculation of winding patterns for axisymmetric and non-axisymmetric geometries like tubes, elbows, and T-fittings. With over 30 years of development, CADWIND optimizes material use, reduces costs, and shortens production times for applications in aerospace, marine, automotive, and energy sectors. Components produced using CADWIND are used in extreme environments, from deep-sea to space missions. As of September 25, 2025, CADWIND 14 represents the latest major release (building on v10.x from earlier years), incorporating enhanced modular architecture, improved FEA exports, and advanced simulation algorithms. It runs on Windows platforms and integrates with various winding machines.

Key Features

  • Winding Simulation: Real-time 3D animation of the winding process, visualizing fiber placement on mandrels.
  • Geometry Handling: Supports complex shapes; imports mandrel models from spreadsheets or CAD software.
  • Laminate Design: Automatic calculation of layer-by-layer structures, accounting for mandrel shape changes.
  • Machine Compatibility: Generates NC programs for standard filament winders; includes postprocessors for common hardware.
  • Analysis Integration: Exports to FEA tools (e.g., NASTRAN, HDF5 formats) for mechanical property calculations.
  • Modular Extensions: Options like iMove PRO for advanced users and DESIGN PACK for laminate data export.

What’s New in CADWIND 14

CADWIND 14 introduces a streamlined modular system with four packages (ESSENTIAL, STANDARD, EXPERT, HIGH-END) to match user needs, making it more cost-effective. Key enhancements include:

  • iWind Algorithm: Improved geodesic and non-geodesic path calculations for precise fiber tension control.
  • Export Upgrades: New NASTRAN format support for FEA software like MSC Nastran and Siemens NX; HDF5 Composite CAE for thick-walled analysis in tools like Altair HyperMesh.
  • Visualization: Enhanced real-time animations and collision detection for machine-mandrel interactions.
  • Workflow Optimizations: Simplified mandrel updates between layers and better integration with third-party software like ComposiCAD or Cadfil.
Cadwind 14
Cadwind 14