OS-E: 0905 Spot Weld Fatigue Analysis and Size Optimization of a Frame Structure

Before you begin, copy the file(s) used in this example to your working directory.

• spotweld_cbar_opt.fem

Objective here is to minimize the fatigue life of the structure using size optimization, by using fatigue life and mass as response (Figure 1).

Figure 2. Size Optimization Plot and Fatigue Life Plot

FE Model

Elements Types

CBAR

CQUAD

RBE2

The linear material properties are:

MAT1

Young’s Modulus

2.1E5 MPa

Poisson's Ratio

0.3

Density

7.9E-9

The final design of the fatigue analysis and size optimization of the frame has improved the fatigue life from 91% to 100%.

Figure 3. Fatigue Life Optimization of the Frame Observations