FEA Modeling Verification and Validation: Correlating Model with Test Data by Optimization Analysis

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is widely used for virtual prototyping. No matter how precise and complete the FEA model is, some assumptions and simplifications are required. The biggest challenge in FEA is the model's degree of accuracy. FEA model verification and validation (V&V) is necessary for warranting modeling accuracy, including model assumptions, meshing quality, and boundary conditions. Optimization analysis (OPT) is frequently chosen to correlate FEA models with field or laboratory test data for model V&V.

This article introduces two successful applications. One correlates an FEA model used in modal analysis with laboratory test data to build a simplified model for resonance control. The second correlates an FEA suspension model in a utility vehicle with field test data to determine assumed ground loads, which are used in a structural simulations of related components, and to verify modeling simplification and assumptions.