Automated Debris Model Generation from FEA Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for simulating the break-up of structures using finite element analysis (FEA) require extensive human analysis to identify and group debris fragments, which is time-consuming and prone to error due to the complexity and volume of output data.
Innovation Solution
A computer system configured to automatically generate a debris model by processing FEA output files, identifying and grouping fragments into debris parts, generating kinematic and debris field models, and producing visual representations, thereby reducing data complexity and analysis time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional FEA methods are used to simulate structure break-up, then the analysis can be performed, but extensive human analysis is required to identify and group debris fragments making it time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic self-processing of FEA output data where the computer automatically identifies, groups, and models debris fragments without requiring extensive human intervention. The automated algorithm processes the output files, groups elements into coherent debris parts, and generates kinematic models independently, significantly reducing the time and effort previously required for manual analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of human analysts examining and grouping debris fragments with an automated computer-based system. The computer algorithm automatically processes FEA output files, identifies fragment connections, and generates models, substituting human analytical work with computational automation that is both faster and more consistent.
2Reliability
If manual analysis of FEA output is performed, then accuracy can be maintained through human expertise, but the complexity and volume of output data makes it prone to error
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual human analysis with an automated computer algorithm that processes FEA output data. The computer automatically handles the complexity of data processing, including identifying connected elements, grouping debris fragments, and generating kinematic models. This automated approach eliminates human error while maintaining accuracy through consistent algorithmic processing of the complex data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an automated computer algorithm as an intermediary between the FEA output data and the final debris models. This intermediary system processes the complex, voluminous data in a systematic manner, transforming raw FEA output into structured debris part models. The algorithm acts as a mediator that handles the complexity of data processing consistently and reliably.
3Measurement precision
If detailed FEA modeling is performed to accurately simulate debris, then the model precision is improved, but the computational resources and time required increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and processes only the critical information from the FEA output files that is necessary for debris modeling. Instead of processing every detail of the complete FEA simulation, the system extracts fragment identification data, connection information, and kinematic parameters to create simplified yet accurate debris models. This extraction approach maintains precision while reducing computational resource requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the complex FEA output data into manageable components for processing. The algorithm divides the data into individual debris parts, groups connected elements, and processes each segment separately to generate the final model. This segmentation strategy allows for precise debris modeling while managing computational complexity and resource consumption through systematic data division.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer generates a computer model based on the output data of a finite element analysis (FEA) performed on a structure that has experienced a break up event. The output data is processed to generate a debris model. The debris model comprises data defining the structure, as well as any fragments or pieces of debris caused by forces exerted on the structure during the break up event. The debris model can then be utilized as input data to generate other computer models.