An innovative GUI toolset for quick prediction of micro-scale RVE mechanical properties

Purpose The Micro-scale Representative Volume Element (RVE) Tool (MRT) and Quick Tool Model (QTM) were developed to rapidly and accurately analyze the effective elastic properties of microscale RVEs. Python code was developed to provide a simple and intuitive user interface. The effective elastic properties of composites with different fiber volume fractions (\(V_f\)) were calculated using the generated microscale models and compared with experimental results. The results demonstrated that the QTM significantly reduces computational time compared with the homogenization-based MRT model. Design/methodology/approach RVE, micro-scale, composite structure, structural analysis, homogenization, constitutive modeling. Findings The results demonstrate that the proposed MRT and QTM tools can accurately and rapidly predict the effective elastic properties of micro-scale RVEs. The QTM significantly reduces computational time compared to full homogenization-based FE models while maintaining high accuracy. Validation against experimental data and literature showed excellent agreement. Furthermore, parametric studies revealed that the random distribution of fibers, fiber shape deformation (up to ±15%), and rotation angles significantly influence the transverse elastic moduli and Poisson's ratios, whereas the longitudinal modulus (E1) remains relatively stable. The successful completion of 144 RVE simulations without convergence issues confirmed the robustness and reliability of the developed tool. Originality/value The random distribution of fibers in the microscale RVE model affects the elastic mechanical parameters of the material in the transverse direction and Poisson’s ratio. Therefore, it needs to be considered in detail in micromechanical simulations. A finite element (FE) calculation model and a new, improved algorithm based on FE automation technology have been proposed to generate three-dimensional RVEs with randomly distributed spatial configurations of composite materials at the microscale level. This method can generate microscale RVEs that match the microstructure of real composite materials. The validated results further demonstrate the accuracy of the proposed estimation model and the need to accurately represent the microstructure of composites. In addition, the flexible and intuitive capabilities of the method enable researchers and designers to create RVE models with customized fiber distributions conveniently. This study proposes an effective and accurate tool for investigating the influence of fiber spacing and fiber shape on the effective mechanical properties of composite materials. Significant variations in Young’s modulus, shear properties and Poisson’s ratio in the transverse direction indicate that controlling the RVE cross-sectional shape, rotation angle and degree of deformation of the fiber geometry is important.