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Computer-Simulated Estimation of the Fatigue Behavior and Stiffness of Spot Joints in Automotive Structures
Technical Paper
1997-20-0030
Sector:
Language:
English
Abstract
The stiffness and the fatigue behavior of lightweight vehicle
body structures is greatly influenced by the properties of its
joints. The joining technology used, the number and location of the
spot joints are of increasing importance both for engineers and
cost accounts.
This paper presents a new computer simulation concept for
estimating the stiffness and fatigue behavior of thin-walled
structures which may incorporate any type of spot joints, e.g.,
welded, riveted or clinched joints. Independent of the mesh size of
the FE model as a whole, a new automatic mesh generation is carried
out in the circular area surrounding the spot joints. The result is
a circular element arrangement, with a diameter range equal to that
of the joint under consideration. During the automatic generation
of the new mesh, the local stiffness of the structure can be
adapted to the properties of the joint in question. These constant
FE-mesh conditions, in combination with structural stress S/N
curves, determined by tests with specific specimens, are the basis
for a consistent quality of the element stresses.