KNOW-HOW Simulation g…/… Mastering simulation methods and tools for composite design meet application requirements based on the properties of the matrix, fibre and fibre/matrix interface. The extension of this ‘‘bottom-up’’ approach to the nanometre scale presents remarkable opportunities and poses new challenges for the development of innovative approaches in the processing, characterization and modelling of this new generation of composite materials. Understanding the structureprocessing-property relationship at the nanoscale is fundamental to enable the large-scale application of these materials. Statistics The importance of using statistical tools to estimate errors in test data and simulations is also emphasized in the workshop series. The fundamental knowledge and tools required to perform statistical analysis are provided. Conclusions The ability to predict the strength and life of composite structures provides a cost-effective approach for safe structural design. The importance of numerical tools in this approach cannot be overemphasized. JEC and Stanford University are offering two training sessions to master the basic and advanced concepts involved in composite design, together with supporting tools and data: 1) Composites Design Workshop III: a two-week intensive online workshop that will take place from 21 July to 4 August 2010. Each of the 11 days will feature a two-hour lecture followed by another two hours of homework, software demonstration and practice. The workshop will be taught by composite experts from around the world; 2) Design Forum, JEC 2010: a three-hour synopsis summarizing the key aspects of the Composites Design Workshop. The session will be run at JEC/Paris on 14 April 2010, and at JEC/Singapore on 14 October 2010. The basic methodology and tools provided in the workshop will be presented by Profs. Stephen W. Tsai, Sung K. Ha and Jose Daniel Melo. This workshop will provide each participant with valuable methods and tools to validate or challenge existing design practices and to implement new structural design concepts using composites. The workshop is based on an authoritative book by Prof. Tsai and his team (Strength & Life of Composites) and covers other advanced topics such as error-estimation, reliability analysis and nanocomposites. The design tools used in the workshop further strengthen the understanding and utilization of the proposed concepts in composites design. More information: http://compositesdesign.stanford.edu 92 jec composites magazine / No56 April 2010http://www.corematerials.alcancomposites.com http://compositesdesign.stanford.edu