Removing Error and Estimating an Accurate Finite Element Model of Graphite–Epoxy Composite Laminate Structure Using Direct Updating Method

Abstract

AbstractFinite element model updating is a technique to improve the analytical or simulated finite element (FE) model of any structure from its experimental modal test data. The main purpose to apply finite model updating (FEMU) on structures is to remove the uncertainties present in the finite element model. In this paper, finite element model updating method is applied on the composite structure to remove the error present in the finite element models. The main objective of this paper is to accurately estimate the modal analysis characteristics such as the spatial model, modal –model, and the response model of the composite structure laminates. The uncertainties present in the analytical or simulated finite element model of any composite structure may be due to its in-plane elastic properties, fiber orientations, and incorrect dimensions and most probably due to the uncertainty present in the boundary conditions of the structure. In this paper, direct updating method has been used to improve the finite element model of the composite structure laminate. A graphite–epoxy composite material laminate is taken for the validation of direct updating method. It will be observed from the proposed study that direct updating method is fast and easy to implement because it directly updates the simulated finite element model by removing the uncertainties.KeywordsFinite element modelingDirect updating methodComposite materialLaminateModal model