Connector Stiffness Management in FEM Models
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Solution Overview
Problem
The Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations face challenges in accurately representing the stiffness of connectors, leading to discrepancies between simulated and physical test results due to the discretization process, which affects the load transfer between structural components.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced to adjust the bending moment of inertia of shell elements connected by a connector using a scaling factor, allowing users to fine-tune the stiffness of patches in FEM models to better match physical test results, involving the computation of an adjusted bending moment of inertia based on user input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a finer mesh is used in FEM discretization, then the simulation detail and resolution are improved, but the patch stiffness becomes excessively high and deviates from physical test results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the bending moment of inertia of shell elements through a scaling factor. This scaling factor adjusts the stiffness parameters of the patch to compensate for the excessive stiffness introduced by fine mesh discretization, thereby maintaining accuracy in load transfer simulation while preserving the high resolution benefits of fine meshing.
2Manufacturing precision
If the bending moment of inertia of shell elements is adjusted using a scaling factor, then the stiffness accuracy is improved, but the computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing the scaling factor adjustment specifically at the connector patch level rather than globally across the entire model. This localized approach modifies only the shell elements directly involved in connector load transfer, improving stiffness accuracy where needed while minimizing the overall computational complexity increase.
3Productivity
If conventional FEM discretization is used without stiffness adjustment, then the computational efficiency is maintained, but the simulation results do not correlate well with physical test results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by implementing a selective stiffness adjustment approach where only specific shell elements at connector patches are modified using scaling factors, rather than adjusting the entire model. This partial modification maintains computational efficiency by limiting the number of adjusted elements while sufficiently improving simulation accuracy to correlate with physical test results.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses and methods are described herein for controlling stiffness associated with a connector connecting two or more components of a model, including, but not limited to, receiving user input of a scaling factor and adjusting the stiffness associated with the connector by adjusting a bending moment of inertia of a patch of one of the two or more components based on the scaling factor. The connector contacts the one of the two or more components at the patch.