Finite Element Modelling and Model Updating of Riveted Joint Structure

Abstract

Nowadays, the applications of rivet joints are dramatically increasing because of its capability and efficiency to assemble the engineering structure such as aerospace and mechanical structures. However, every joint such as riveted joint has a significant effect to the overall dynamic behaviour of the assembled structure. This is because, the overall dynamic behaviour of the assembled structure is highly relying on the quality of the riveted joints. Generally, the riveted joints always introduce local effects such as surface contact, clamping force and slip to the surface of the assembled structure. Therefore, this paper is attempted to investigate the dynamic behaviour of the riveted joints structure experimentally and numerically. The experimental modal analysis method is used to measure the dynamic behaviour of the assembled structure. Meanwhile, the predicted data of the dynamic behaviour of the assembled structure is obtained by using finite element method. A few types of element connectors that available in finite element commercial software namely such as RBE, CBAR, CBEAM and CELAS have been investigated in order to represent the rivet joints in the assembled structure. In this study, the results obtained from the finite element analysis (in terms of natural frequencies and mode shapes) are then correlated with experimental counterpart in order to identify the level of the accuracy between element connectors that are used in modelling the rivet joints of the assembled structure. Finally, the reconciliation method using finite element model updating is used to minimise the discrepancies of the initial finite element model based on the most appropriate element connector to experimental data. The results reveal that CBEAM element connector has better capability and most appropriate comparing to other three element connectors to represent rivet joint in the assembled structure.