A method for fast detection of unconstrained motion and low stiffness connections in finite element modeling.

Abstract

To provide a method for fast detection of unconstrained motion and low-stiffness connections in finite element modeling.SOLUTION: A computer-implemented method disclosed herein is configured to detect an unconstrained or low-stiffness connection between parts of an initial finite element (FE) model in a computer-aided drafting (CAD) application. A stiffness matrix of the initial FE model is transformed into a reduced stiffness matrix. A singular mode is determined in the reduced stiffness matrix. A plurality of singular modes is identified as corresponding to an unconstrained or low-stiffness connection between parts of the FE model.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to the development of model simulations, and more particularly to detecting unconstrained motion and low stiffness connections between parts in finite element models. [Background technology]

[0002] Background of the Invention Normal mode analysis of a modeled mechanical system determines the natural vibration shapes (normal modes) of the model and the corresponding natural frequencies. Unconstrained or low-stiffness connections between parts in the finite element model can indicate that at least one characteristic of the mechanical system is not properly accounted for by the finite element model. Therefore, it is desirable to quickly detect and correct these modes in the finite element model.

[0003] When testing finite element models of mechanical systems, it can be difficult to detect and identify unconstrained or low-stiffness connections between parts, especially during initial testing. A common method for systematically determining unconstrained or low-stiffness connections between parts of a finite element model involves running natural frequency extraction simulations of the finite element model and identifying deformation modes with zero frequency. For example, natural frequency extraction for finite element models is described in the SIMULIA User Assistance documentation section "Abaqus > Analysis > Analysis Procedures > Dynamic stress / displacement analysis > Natural frequency extraction."

[0004] Another method for systematically determining unconstrained or low stiffness couplings between portions of a finite element model is to perform a singular value decomposition of the stiffness matrix of the finite element model. For example, the singular value decomposition technique is described at https: / / en.wikipedia.org / wiki / Singular_value_decomposition. A third method for systematically determining unconstrained or low stiffness couplings between portions of a finite element model involves searching for singular points resulting from a lower-upper (LU) decomposition of the stiffness matrix of the finite element model. For example, the LU decomposition is described at https: / / en.wikipedia.org / wiki / LU_decomposition. An example of a commercial modeling platform that provides an LU decomposition tool is described here: https: / / help.solidworks.com / 2020 / english / solidworks / cworks / hidd_contact_visualization_plot.htm.

[0005] Unfortunately, each of these approaches involves significant computational time and resources. For example, finite element models typically involve n×n stiffness matrices, where "n" can be in the millions, which can result in computational times of an enumerated method applied to an n×n system of equations exceeding an hour. Furthermore, most finite element analysts generally do not perform natural frequency extraction or singular value decomposition before performing their intended simulation to check whether any unconstrained or low-stiffness connections exist between parts. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The fallback method for determining unconstrained or low-stiffness connections between parts in a finite element model is for the analyst to attempt to run the desired static or other simulation, which either aborts with a cryptic message about a singular model or possibly reports an unrealistic solution. In the process of diagnosing the problem, the analyst may ultimately determine that the source of the problem is an unconstrained displacement mode. Therefore, there is a need in the industry to address one or more of these shortcomings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] Summary of the Invention Embodiments of the present invention provide a method for fast detection of unconstrained motion and low stiffness coupling between parts in finite element modeling. Unconstrained motion and low stiffness coupling between parts are often problematic in finite element modeling. Bringing these modes to the finite element analyst's attention quickly (or automatically resolving these problems) increases the usability and robustness of finite element modeling software.

[0008] Briefly, the present invention relates to a computer-implemented method configured to detect modes associated with unconstrained motion and low-stiffness connections between parts of an initial finite element (FE) model in a computer-aided drafting (CAD) application. The stiffness matrix of the initial FE model is converted to a reduced stiffness matrix, and a set of singular modes and corresponding singular values ​​associated with the reduced stiffness matrix is ​​determined. Any singular mode with a corresponding zero (or very small) singular value is identified as corresponding to an unconstrained mode of the FE model. For users requesting that modes associated with low-stiffness connections between parts be brought to their attention, the software will also identify singular modes with low singular values. The modes can be brought to the user's attention in graphical form. Optionally, a stabilization method can be automatically invoked to overcome the unconstrained motion or increase the connection stiffness between parts.

[0009] Other systems, methods, and features of the invention will be, or will become, apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, and features be included within this description, be within the scope of the invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims.

[0010] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the invention. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a finite element representation of three subsets under a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram of a reduced system representation of the finite element representation of FIG. 1A. [Figure 2] 1B is a flowchart of an exemplary method for converting the original stiffness matrix of the original finite element model of FIG. 1A into a reduced stiffness matrix for the reduced system of FIG. 1B. [Figure 3] 1 shows a schematic diagram of an example of individual contact constraints. [Figure 4] 4 is a flowchart 400 for an exemplary embodiment of a method for FE modeling. [Figure 5] 5 is a flowchart detailing steps for identifying singular modes in the method of FIG. 4. [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a system for carrying out the functionality of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Detailed Description Embodiments of the present invention provide a computationally inexpensive method for identifying unconstrained motion and low stiffness connections between parts prior to simulation.

[0013] The following definitions are useful for interpreting terms applied to features of the embodiments disclosed herein and are intended solely to define elements within the present disclosure.

[0014] As used within this disclosure, the term "finite element method" refers to a method widely used to analyze and solve engineering problems using mathematical models, e.g., models of mechanical structures. The finite element method is a specific numerical method for solving partial differential equations (i.e., some boundary value problems) in two or three spatial variables. To solve the problem, the finite element method subdivides the large system into smaller, simpler parts called finite elements. This can be achieved, for example, by a specific spatial discretization in the spatial dimensions, performed by constructing a mesh of objects with a finite number of points that encompass the numerical domain for the solution. The finite element method formulation of the boundary value problem ultimately results in a system of algebraic equations. The simple equations that model these finite elements, referred to as the finite element model, are then combined into a larger system of equations that models the entire problem. The finite element method then approximates the solution by minimizing the associated error function using a variational method from the calculus of variations. Mathematically, the physical properties of the mechanical system that form the basis of the finite element model can be numerically represented, for example, by a stiffness matrix and / or a mass matrix. The deformations and unconstrained modes of the mechanical system can be determined from the stiffness matrix.

[0015] As used within this disclosure, "unconstrained motion" and "unconstrained mode" refer to a situation in which parts within a finite element model are free to move without restriction in any particular direction.

[0016] As used within this disclosure, "penalty stiffness" refers to the application of a large stiffness to ensure a desired / expected displacement.

[0017] In numerical analysis and linear algebra, "lower-upper (LU) decomposition" or factorization factors a matrix as a product of a lower triangular matrix and an upper triangular matrix. The product sometimes also involves a permutation matrix. LU decomposition can be considered as the matrix form of Gaussian elimination. Computers commonly use LU decomposition to solve square systems of linear equations, and it is also a key step in finding the inverse of a matrix or calculating the determinant of a matrix. LU decomposition was introduced by Polish mathematician Tadeusz Banachiewicz in 1938. A simple example of a singular matrix is:

number

number

[0018] In linear algebra, singular value decomposition (SVD) is a factorization of real or complex matrices that generalizes the eigendecomposition of square normal matrices to any m×n matrix via an extension of polar decomposition.

[0019] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts.

[0020] Exemplary embodiments of the present guidelines are directed to systems and methods for quickly identifying unconstrained motion and weak couplings between portions of a finite element model. These embodiments make it practical to automatically invoke methods to determine unconstrained portions or identify weak couplings between portions before running a desired simulation, so that the corresponding modes can be reported to the simulation analyst for application of appropriate constraints or strengthening of the weak couplings. Once these undesired modes are identified, adjusting the finite element model to constrain them is often intuitive for the analyst.

[0021] As mentioned in the background section, methods for systematically determining unconstrained and / or low-stiffness connections between portions of a finite element model previously required extensive computational time. Exemplary embodiments of the present invention include a faster approach that automatically invokes an SVD method to determine modes with small singular values ​​corresponding to unconstrained motion modes (or low-stiffness connections) before running a desired simulation, thereby allowing those modes to be reported to the simulation analyst for resolution. Once the method identifies one or more such undesired modes, it is often intuitive for the analyst to adjust the finite element model to constrain the corresponding portions or repair the associated low-stiffness connections. In particular, identified unconstrained modes can be automatically resolved using, for example, stabilization methods.

[0022] As described in more detail below, under an embodiment, the stiffness matrix associated with the finite element model is temporarily converted to a simplified stiffness matrix. For example, the simplified stiffness matrix can be much smaller than the full finite element model stiffness matrix, which typically has just three displacement degrees of freedom and three rotation degrees of freedom for each part. Unconstrained modes and / or very low stiffness couplings between parts of the reduced (simplified) stiffness matrix are evaluated. The degrees of freedom associated with the reduced stiffness matrix represent the displacements and rotations of the individual parts, whereby the modal stiffnesses of the reduced stiffness matrix correspond to resistances to relative translation or rotation between parts. Zero resistance to a mode of relative translation or rotation between parts indicates unconstrained motion. Very low resistance associated with a mode of relative translation or rotation between parts indicates very low coupling stiffness. It should be noted that the resistances to relative translation and rotation between parts can be calculated directly from the original stiffness matrix, but this requires much greater computational effort than calculating these resistances via the reduced stiffness matrix.

[0023] A first exemplary embodiment of a simple two-dimensional model is shown in FIGS. 1A-1B. FIG. 1A shows an original finite element representation 100 of a three-subassembly. A first portion 1, a second portion 2, and a third portion 3 each include multiple subcomponents that are internally and externally interrelated according to the original finite element representation 100. For illustrative purposes, each square in the grid represents one subcomponent of each portion 1, 2, and 3. As described below with reference to FIG. 2, the original finite element representation 100 is temporarily converted into a reduced system representation 150 with a simplified first portion 1′, a simplified second portion 2′, and a simplified portion 3′, as shown by FIG. 1B with one point per portion. The reduced system 150 is quickly evaluated to determine whether the reduced system 150 includes one or more unconstrained and / or low-stiffness connections between portions (which may also be present in the original finite element representation 100). The original system 100 includes 1) the finite element meshes of each of the sections 1, 2, and 3, 2) the connections between sections 1, 2, and 3 where they meet, and 3) the connection to the ground 140 along the bottom edge of the first section 1. The conversion to the simplified system 150 is facilitated by strengthening the connections between the simplified sections 1′, 2′, and 3′ and to the ground 140 with finite “penalty” stiffnesses (creating a representative stiffness for the simplified model). After converting the connections present in the original finite element model system 100 to the simplified system, the simplified system 150 includes a third stiffness 153 between sections 3′ and 2′, a second stiffness 152 between sections 1′ and 2′, and a first stiffness 151 from section 1′ to the ground.

[0024] If the connections between the parts in this example exhibited frictionless contact, part 3' would exhibit an unconstrained sliding mode, which would be reflected by a stiffness of zero in that mode, as predicted by the singular value decomposition algorithm applied to reduced system 150. In this three-part, two-dimensional example, the reduced system of equations involves nine degrees of freedom, and the computation time required to identify the unconstrained mode is small, typically only a fraction of a second.

[0025] 2 is a flowchart of an exemplary method 200 for converting the original stiffness matrix of the original finite element model 100 into a (much smaller) reduced stiffness matrix for the simplification system 150. Any process description or block in the flowchart should be understood to represent a module, segment, portion of code or step that comprises one or more instructions for implementing the particular logical function(s) within the process, and it should be noted that alternative implementations are within the scope of the invention in which functions may be performed in a different order than that shown or described, including substantially concurrently or in reverse order, depending on the functionality involved, as would be understood by one skilled in the art of the present invention.

[0026] As indicated by block 210, a single representative node, represented by 301, 302, and 303 in FIG. 1B , is introduced with six degrees of freedom for each three-dimensional portion and three degrees of freedom for each two-dimensional portion, representing the translational and rotational motion of each portion. Here, each portion 301, 302, and 303 is modeled as a rigid entity. As indicated by block 220, each portion is temporarily constrained to prevent deformation. As indicated by block 230, the element stiffness matrix is ​​transformed to eliminate the original degrees of freedom in favor of the degrees of freedom of the representative node 301, 302, and 303, based on consideration of imaginary rigid beams 151, 152, and 153 connecting the representative node 301, 302, and 303 of a portion to each original node of the same portion. An exemplary description of the transformation process is given in "Concepts and Applications of Finite Element Analysis", Second Edition, pp. 159-161, Robert D. Cook, John Wiley & Sons, 1981. As indicated by block 240, the transformed element stiffness matrices are combined to determine a reduced stiffness matrix.

[0027] Most finite elements belonging to a single part (including most elements of the finite element model) have a zero contribution to the reduced stiffness matrix and do not need to be processed to determine the reduced system of equations. Only finite elements associated with the connections and contacts between parts and the connection to the ground are considered when creating the reduced system of equations. FIG. 3 shows an example of an individual contact constraint involving nodes 344, 345, and 363. The transformation process converts this interaction into a stiffness between points 302 and 303 of the reduced system 300. Similarly, the other contact constraint between parts 2 and 3 is converted into a stiffness contribution between points 302 and 303. Similarly, the transformation process converts the stiffness along the bottom edge of part 1 relative to the ground to a stiffness at point 301 of the reduced system 300 relative to the ground 340. In some cases, it may be convenient to retain additional degrees of freedom in the reduced stiffness matrix. If the definition of contact between parts in FIG. 3 is replaced with a physical low-stiffness spring, there may be constrained relative motion between the parts based on the strength (stiffness) of the spring. Similarly, a transformation process converts these interactions into stiffnesses between points 302 and 303 of the reduced system 300. However, the singular values ​​corresponding to those modes will be non-zero and reflect the strength of those springs. Based on the magnitude of these low stiffness singular values, a decision can be made as to whether to increase or decrease the spring stiffness to meet product requirements. Similar techniques can be applied for other types of connectors, including those with rotational functionality, by replacing the connector with points representing rotational capabilities and then reducing the part stiffness between each part representative point and the connector representative point.

[0028] Once the reduced stiffness matrix is ​​formed, embodiments rapidly determine the singular modes of the reduced stiffness matrix using, for example, well-known singular value decomposition techniques. These singular modes correspond to modes of unconstrained motion of the original system. The computational time to perform singular value decomposition on the reduced stiffness matrix is ​​typically on the order of one second or less (much more efficient than performing singular value decomposition on the original stiffness matrix). For example, in a 10-subassembly model, the reduced stiffness matrix may involve a stiffness matrix of dimensions 60 x 60, while the original stiffness matrix would typically be many orders of magnitude larger (e.g., 1 million x 1 million).

[0029] In a preferred implementation of the embodiment, the finite element simulation (or interactive pre-processing) software is modified to automatically calculate any unconstrained motion modes and modes associated with low stiffness connections.

[0030] If any unconstrained displacement modes are identified using the reduced stiffness matrix, they are reported to the user for interactive solution, or possibly can be resolved automatically, for example by adding artificial stiffness or damping. Once the displacement modes are resolved, the simulation continues using the original (unreduced) stiffness matrix.

[0031] 4 is a flowchart 400 for an exemplary embodiment of a method for FE modeling. A computer-aided drafting (CAD) representation of the assembly is created, as indicated by block 410. A finite element (FE) model of the assembly is created, as indicated by block 420. The FE model is submitted for FE simulation, as indicated by block 430. The FE simulation determines whether a simple modeling problem (unconstrained mode) is detected, as indicated by block 435. If a simple modeling problem is detected in the FE simulation, the problem is reported to the user (e.g., via a warning box or other user interface mechanism) so that the user can modify the FE model, as indicated by block 460, and the user submits the modified model for FE simulation, as indicated by block 430.

[0032] If no simple modeling problems are detected in the FE simulation, the FE simulation continues as indicated by block 450 and proceeds to a success or failure conclusion as indicated by block 455. If the FE simulation is successful, the user analyzes the simulation results as indicated by block 470. If the FE simulation is not successful, the user diagnoses and modifies the FE model as indicated by block 460 and submits the modified model for FE simulation as indicated by block 430.

[0033] Flowchart 400 illustrates a typical sequence for FE modeling, with two points in the flow (blocks 435 and 455) that may require the user to address issues in the model. Some FE modeling issues are specifically detected by the FE program and pointed out to the user after block 435. Other types of modeling issues may not be immediately apparent, may require additional processing time, and / or are more indirectly identified by the FE program after block 455. Unconstrained (or low-stiffness) motion issues for static FE simulations were in the latter category. Embodiments allow unconstrained / low-stiffness connections between parts to be quickly and specifically identified as part of a simplified modeling problem check. For example, if the three-part example in FIGS. 1A-B and 2 has an unconstrained horizontal translation mode in part 3 associated with frictionless contact, the method described above with conversion to a simplified system can quickly identify this unconstrained mode and report the unconstrained mode back to the user. Once the unconstrained mode is indicated to the user, determining how to modify the model is often intuitive. Optionally, the simulation software may suggest or automatically invoke methods for stabilizing these modes.

[0034] 5 is a flowchart 600 illustrating a method for identifying singular modes in a multi-part FE model. As indicated by block 610, create a representative reference point for each part of the multi-part FE model to quickly identify unconstrained modes, and treat each part as rigid, with the point serving as a rigid reference. As indicated by block 620, iterate through the finite element entities associated with connections between parts and for parts connected to the ground. As indicated by block 625, consider these connections as reinforced with finite stiffness. K'=T T KT (Equation 1) A standard transformation of the form: converts the element stiffness matrices into matrices with only reference point translations and rotations. These contributions are combined into a global stiffness matrix with only partial reference point translations and rotations.

[0035] A standard singular value decomposition is performed on the global stiffness matrix with only translations and rotations of the local reference points, as indicated by block 630. The modal stiffness at the output of the singular value decomposition is zero or small, as indicated by block 640. If so, the corresponding mode shape output from the singular value decomposition is reported to the user, indicating that the mode should be stabilized.

[0036] The system for performing the functionality described in detail above may be a computer, an example of which is shown in the schematic diagram of FIG. 6. System 500 includes a processor 502, a storage device 504, a memory 506 having stored therein software 508 defining the functionality described above, input and output (I / O) devices 510 (or peripherals), and a local bus or interface 512 that enables communication within system 500. Local interface 512 may be, for example, without limitation, one or more buses or other wired or wireless connections as known in the art. To enable communication, local interface 512 may have additional elements omitted for simplicity, such as controllers, buffers (caches), drivers, repeaters, and receivers. Furthermore, local interface 512 may include address, control, and / or data connections to enable appropriate communication between the aforementioned components.

[0037] Processor 502 is a hardware device for executing software, particularly that stored in memory 506. Processor 502 may be any custom or commercially available single-core or multi-core processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a coprocessor among several processors associated with the system 500, a semiconductor-based microprocessor (in the form of a microchip or chipset), a microprocessor, or generally any device for executing software instructions.

[0038] The memory 506 may include any one or combination of volatile memory elements (e.g., random access memory (RAM, such as DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.)) and non-volatile memory elements (e.g., ROM, hard drive, tape, CD-ROM, etc.). Additionally, the memory 506 may incorporate electronic, magnetic, optical, and / or other types of storage media. It should be noted that the memory 506 may have a distributed architecture in which various components are located remotely from one another but may be accessed by the processor 502.

[0039] Software 508 defines the functionality performed by system 500 in accordance with the present invention. Software 508 in memory 506 may include one or more separate programs, each containing an ordered listing of executable instructions for implementing the logical functions of system 500, as described below. Memory 506 may include operating system (O / S) 520. An operating system essentially controls the execution of programs in system 500 and provides scheduling, input-output control, file and data management, memory management, and communication control and related services.

[0040] The I / O devices 510 may include input devices such as, but not limited to, a keyboard, a mouse, a scanner, a microphone, etc. Additionally, the I / O devices 510 may also include output devices such as, but not limited to, a printer, a display, etc. Finally, the I / O devices 510 may further include devices that communicate via both input and output, such as, but not limited to, a modulator / demodulator (such as a modem for accessing another device, system, or network), a radio frequency (RF) or other transceiver, a telephone interface, a bridge, a router, or other device.

[0041] When system 500 is in operation, processor 502 is configured to execute software 508 stored in memory 506, to communicate data to and from memory 506, and to control the operation of system 500 generally in accordance with software 508 as described above.

[0042] When the functionality of system 500 is in operation, processor 502 is configured to execute software 508 stored in memory 506, communicate data to and from memory 506, and generally control the operation of system 500 pursuant to software 508. Operating system 520 is read by processor 502, optionally buffered within processor 502, and then executed.

[0043] It should be noted that when system 500 is implemented in software 508, instructions for implementing system 500 may be stored on any computer-readable medium for use by or in connection with any computer-related device, system, or method. Such computer-readable medium may, in some embodiments, correspond to either or both of memory 506 or storage device 504. In the context of this specification, a computer-readable medium is an electronic, magnetic, optical, or other physical device or means that can contain or store a computer program for use by or in connection with a computer-related device, system, or method. Instructions for implementing the system may be embodied in any computer-readable medium for use by or in connection with a processor or other such instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. While processor 502 is mentioned as an example, such instruction execution system, apparatus, or device may, in some embodiments, be any computer-based system, system that includes a processor, or other system that can retrieve instructions from and execute instructions from an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. In the context of this specification, a "computer-readable medium" may be any means that can store, communicate, propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with a processor or other such instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0044] Such a computer-readable medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, device, or propagation medium. More specific examples (non-exhaustive list) of computer-readable media would include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires (electronic), a portable computer diskette (magnetic), a random access memory (RAM) (electronic), a read-only memory (ROM) (electronic), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM, EEPROM, or flash memory) (electronic), an optical fiber (optical), and a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) (optical). It should be noted that the computer-readable medium may be paper or another suitable medium on which the program is printed, as the program may be captured electronically, for example, via optical scanning of paper or other media, and then compiled, interpreted, executed, or processed in any other suitable manner as needed, and then stored in computer memory.

[0045] In alternative embodiments in which system 500 is implemented in hardware, system 500 may be implemented using any or a combination of the following technologies well known in the art: discrete logic circuits having logic gates for performing logical functions on data signals, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) having appropriate combinations of logic gates, programmable gate arrays (PGAs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), etc.

[0046] The above-described embodiments enable identification of unconstrained modes using a transformation to a reduced stiffness matrix, resulting in orders of magnitude faster performance compared to evaluating singular modes for the original stiffness matrix. The transformation operation is fast and robust. The embodiments provide the ability to identify unconstrained modes very quickly, making it practical for simulation software to automatically identify these modes by default without the simulation analyst experiencing any noticeable delay. Consistently bringing any unconstrained modes to the simulation analyst's attention or having the software automatically stabilize these modes increases the chances of a successful simulation, making the simulation analyst more productive, and more satisfied with the simulation software.

[0047] Modeling errors that result in unconstrained displacement modes are common among both inexperienced and experienced simulation analysts. Even experienced simulation analysts accustomed to dealing with such problems would welcome better assistance from the software in this regard. Previously, inexperienced simulation analysts who experienced simulation failures due to unconstrained displacement modes may have concluded that the simulation software was too difficult to use and given up. Under the present embodiment, simulation analysts will be more likely to have a good experience with the simulation software. Analysts who deal with complex finite element models, such as assemblies with dozens of parts, where the relationships between the parts can sometimes become difficult to grasp and tedious to track, will particularly benefit from the present invention. Using the system described under the present embodiment, analysts can easily identify parts within an assembly that are unstable in one or more directions.

[0048] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the structure of the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. In view of the foregoing, it is intended that the present invention cover modifications and variations of this invention provided they fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0049] 1. First Part 1' First part 2. Second Part 2' Second part 3. Third Part 3' Third part 100 original finite element representation 140 Ground 150 Simplified System 151 First Rigidity 152 Secondary Rigidity 153 Third Rigidity 200 ways 210 blocks 220 blocks 230 blocks 240 blocks 300 Simplified System 301 Representative Node 302 Representative Node 303 Representative Node 340 Ground 344 nodes 345 nodes 363 nodes 400 Flowchart 410 Block 420 Block 430 Block 435 blocks 440 blocks 450 blocks 455 blocks 460 blocks 470 blocks 500 Systems 502 processor 504 Storage Devices 506 memory 508 Software 510 Input and Output Devices 512 Local Bus 520 Operating System 600 Flowchart 610 Block 620 Block 625 blocks 630 Block 640 blocks

Claims

1. 1. A computer-implemented method for detecting unconstrained or low stiffness connections between portions of an initial finite element (FE) model in a computer-aided drafting (CAD) application, comprising: converting the stiffness matrix of the initial FE model into a reduced stiffness matrix; determining singular modes in the reduced stiffness matrix; identifying the singular modes as corresponding to unconstrained or low stiffness connections between the portions of the initial FE model; Including, Transforming the stiffness matrix of the initial FE model into a reduced stiffness matrix comprises: introducing a single representative node with six degrees of freedom for each three-dimensional portion of the initial FE model and three degrees of freedom for each two-dimensional portion of the initial FE model, representing the translational and rotational motion of each portion; constraining each part from displacement; transforming the finite element stiffness matrix of the constrained part so as to prioritize the degrees of freedom of the representative node and eliminate the original degrees of freedom; combining the transformed element stiffness matrices to determine a reduced stiffness matrix; further comprising Determining singular modes in the reduced stiffness matrix comprises: treating each part as rigid with said representative node acting as a rigid reference; iterating over finite element entities associated with connections between the parts and / or between the parts and the ground; Transforming the element stiffness matrices into translation and rotation matrices that involve only translations and rotations of reference points; incorporating the translation and rotation matrices into a global stiffness matrix; performing a singular value decomposition of the global stiffness matrix; detecting small or zero modal stiffness in the output of the singular value decomposition; reporting the corresponding mode shapes output from the singular value decomposition and an indication of the modes to be stabilized to a user of the CAD application; Including, Computer-implemented method.

2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising receiving a solved initial FE model based on identifying the unconstrained or low stiffness couplings between portions of the initial FE model.

3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising the step of performing a simulation of the stiffness matrix of the solved initial FE model.

4. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising the step of creating a computer-aided drafting (CAD) representation of the mechanical assemblage.

5. The method of claim 4 further comprising creating the initial FE model of the mechanical assembly.

6. The method of any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising the step of submitting the initial FE model for FE simulation.

7. The method of any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising the step of notifying a user of the CAD application of the identified unconstrained mode.

8. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising resolving at least one unconstrained or low stiffness coupling between portions in the initial FE model based on the identified unconstrained or low stiffness coupling between portions of the initial FE model.

Images