Performance Comparison of Two Meta-Model for the Application to Finite Element Model Updating of Structures

To investigate the application of meta-model for finite element( FE) model updating of structures,the performance of two popular meta-model,i. e.,Kriging model and response surface model( RSM),were compared in detail. Firstly,above two kinds of meta-model were introduced briefly. Secondly,some key issues of the application of meta-model to FE model updating of structures were proposed and discussed,and then some advices were presented in order to select a reasonable meta-model for the purpose of updating the FE model of structures. Finally,the procedure of FE model updating based on meta-model was implemented by updating the FE model of a truss bridge model with the measured modal parameters. The results showed that the Kriging model was more proper for FE model updating of complex structures.

Modularized and Parametric Modeling Technology for Finite Element Simulations of Underground Engineering under Complicated Geological Conditions

The surrounding geological conditions and supporting structures of underground engineering are often updated during construction,and these updates require repeated numerical modeling.To improve the numerical modeling efficiency of underground engineering,a modularized and parametric modeling cloud server is developed by using Python codes.The basic framework of the cloud server is as follows:input the modeling parameters into the web platform,implement Rhino software and FLAC3D software to model and run simulations in the cloud server,and return the simulation results to the web platform.The modeling program can automatically generate instructions that can run the modeling process in Rhino based on the input modeling parameters.The main modules of the modeling program include modeling the 3D geological structures,the underground engineering structures,and the supporting structures as well as meshing the geometric models.In particular,various cross-sections of underground caverns are crafted as parametricmodules in themodeling program.Themodularized and parametric modeling program is used for a finite element simulation of the underground powerhouse of the Shuangjiangkou Hydropower Station.This complicatedmodel is rapidly generated for the simulation,and the simulation results are reasonable.Thus,this modularized and parametric modeling program is applicable for three-dimensional finite element simulations and analyses.

Finite element model updating and validating of Runyang Suspension Bridge based on SHMS

Based on the finite element （FE） program ANSYS, a three-dimensional model for the Runyang Suspension Bridge （RSB） is established. The structural natural frequency, vibration mode, stress and displacement response under various load cases are given. A new method of FE model updating is presented based on the physical meaning of sensitivity and the penalty function concept. In this method, the structural model is updated by modifying the parameters of design, and validated by structural natural vibration characteristics, stress response as well as displacement response. The design parameters used for updating are bounded according to measured static response and engineering judgment. The FE model of RSB is updated and validated by the measurements coming from the structural health monitoring system （SHMS）, and the FE baseline model reflecting the current state of RSB is achieved. Both the dynamic and static results show that the method is effective in updating the FE model of long span suspension bridges. The results obtained provide an important research basis for damage alarming and health monitoring of the RSB.

Dynamic finite element model updating using meta-model and genetic algorithm

Current dynamic finite element model updating methods are not efficient or restricted to the problem of local optima. To circumvent these, a novel updating method which integrates the meta-model and the genetic algorithm is proposed. Experimental design technique is used to determine the best sampling points for the estimation of polynomial coefficients given the order and the number of independent variables. Finite element analyses are performed to generate the sampling data. Regression analysis is then used to estimate the response surface model to approximate the functional relationship between response features and design parameters on the entire design space. In the fitness evaluation of the genetic algorithm, the response surface model is used to substitute the finite element model to output features with given design parameters for the computation of fitness for the individual. Finally, the global optima that corresponds to the updated design parameter is acquired after several generations of evolution. In the application example, finite element analysis and modal testing are performed on a real chassis model. The finite element model is updated using the proposed method. After updating, root-mean-square error of modal frequencies is smaller than 2%. Furthermore, prediction ability of the updated model is validated using the testing results of the modified structure. The root-mean-square error of the prediction errors is smaller than 2%.

Influence of Various Earth-Retaining Walls on the Dynamic Response Comparison Based on 3D Modeling

The present work aims to assess earthquake-induced earth-retaining(ER)wall displacement.This study is on the dynamics analysis of various earth-retaining wall designs in hollow precast concrete panels,reinforcement concrete facing panels,and gravity-type earth-retaining walls.The finite element(FE)simulations utilized a 3D plane strain condition to model full-scale ER walls and numerous nonlinear dynamics analyses.The seismic performance of differentmodels,which includes reinforcement concrete panels and gravity-type and hollowprecast concrete ER walls,was simulated and examined using the FE approach.It also displays comparative studies such as stress distribution,deflection of the wall,acceleration across the wall height,lateral wall displacement,lateral wall pressure,and backfill plastic strain.Three components of the created ER walls were found throughout this research procedure.One is a granular reinforcement backfill,while the other is a wall-facing panel and base foundation.The dynamic response effects of varied earth-retaining walls have also been studied.It was discovered that the facing panel of the model significantly impacts the earthquake-induced displacement of ER walls.The proposed analytical model’s validity has been evaluated and compared with the reinforcement concrete facing panels,gravity-type ER wall,scientifically available data,and American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials(AASHTO)guidelines results based on FE simulation.The results of the observations indicate that the hollow prefabricated concrete ER wall is the most feasible option due to its lower displacement and high-stress distribution compared to the two types.The methodology and results of this study establish standards for future analogous investigations and professionals,particularly in light of the increasing computational capabilities of desktop computers.

Conversion between solid and beam element solutions of finite element method based on meta-modeling theory:development and application to a ramp tunnel structure

In this study, a new method for conversion of solid finite element solution to beam finite element solution is developed based on the meta-modeling theory which constructs a model consistent with continuum mechanics. The proposed method is rigorous and efficient compared to a typical conversion method which merely computes surface integration of solid element nodal stresses to obtain cross-sectional forces. The meta-modeling theory ensures the rigorousness of proposed method by defining a proper distance between beam element and solid element solutions in a function space of continuum mechanics. Results of numerical verification test that is conducted with a simple cantilever beam are used to find the proper distance function for this conversion. Time history analysis of the main tunnel structure of a real ramp tunnel is considered as a numerical example for the proposed conversion method. It is shown that cross-sectional forces are readily computed for solid element solution of the main tunnel structure when it is converted to a beam element solution using the proposed method. Further, envelopes of resultant forces which are of primary importance for the purpose of design, are developed for a given ground motion at the end.

PRINCIPAL COMPONENT DECOMPOSITION BASED FINITE ELEMENT MODEL UPDATING FOR STRAIN-RATE-DEPENDENCE NONLINEAR DYNAMIC PROBLEMS

Thin wail component is utilized to absorb impact energy of a structure. However, the dynamic behavior of such thin-walled structure is highly non-linear with material, geometry and boundary non-linearity. A model updating and validation procedure is proposed to build accurate finite element model of a frame structure with a non-linear thin-walled component for dynamic analysis. Design of experiments （DOE） and principal component decomposition （PCD） approach are applied to extract dynamic feature from nonlinear impact response for correlation of impact test result and FE model of the non-linear structure. A strain-rate-dependent non-linear model updating method is then developed to build accurate FE model of the structure. Computer simulation and a real frame structure with a highly non-linear thin-walled component are employed to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed approach.

Structural Analysis and Design of Steel Connections Using Component-Based Finite Element Model

This paper introduces CBFEM （component-based finite element model） which is a new method to analyze and design connections of steel structures. Design focused CM （component model） is compared to FEM （finite elements models）. Procedure for composition of a model based on usual production process is used in CBFEM. Its results are compared to those obtained by component method for portal frame eaves moment connection with good agreement. Design of moment resistant column base is demonstrated by a case loaded by two directional bending moments and normal force. Interaction of several connections in one complex joint is explained in the last example. This paper aims to provide structural engineers with a new tool to effectively analyze and design various joints of steel structures.

Big Model Strategy for Bridge Structural Health Monitoring Based on Data-Driven, Adaptive Method and Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) Group

This study introduces an innovative“Big Model”strategy to enhance Bridge Structural Health Monitoring(SHM)using a Convolutional Neural Network(CNN),time-frequency analysis,and fine element analysis.Leveraging ensemble methods,collaborative learning,and distributed computing,the approach effectively manages the complexity and scale of large-scale bridge data.The CNN employs transfer learning,fine-tuning,and continuous monitoring to optimize models for adaptive and accurate structural health assessments,focusing on extracting meaningful features through time-frequency analysis.By integrating Finite Element Analysis,time-frequency analysis,and CNNs,the strategy provides a comprehensive understanding of bridge health.Utilizing diverse sensor data,sophisticated feature extraction,and advanced CNN architecture,the model is optimized through rigorous preprocessing and hyperparameter tuning.This approach significantly enhances the ability to make accurate predictions,monitor structural health,and support proactive maintenance practices,thereby ensuring the safety and longevity of critical infrastructure.

A Theory and Method for Modeling of Structures with Stochastic Parameters

In order to reflect the stochastic characteristics of structures more comprehensively and accurately, a theory and method for modeling of structures with stochastic parameters is presented by using probability finite element method and stochastic experiment data of structures based on the modeling of structures with deterministic parameters. Double-decker space frame is taken as an example to validate this theory and method, good results are gained.

Biomechanical assessment of new surgical method instead of kyphoplasty to improve the mechanical behavior of the vertebra:Micro finite element study

AIM To reduce post treatments of kyphoplasty, as a common treatment for osteoporotic vertebrae.METHODS This study suggests a new method for treating vertebrae by setting the hexagonal porous structure instead of the rigid bone cement mass in the kyphoplasty(KP). The KP procedure was performed on the fresh ovine vertebra of the level L1. Micro finite element modeling was performed based on micro computed tomography of ovine trabecular cube. The hexagonal porous structure was set on one cube instead of the bone cement mass. For the implant designing, two geometrical parameters were considered: Spacing diameter and thickness.RESULTS The results of micro finite element analyses indicated the improvement in the mechanical behavior of the vertebra treated by the hexagonal porous structures, as compared to those treated by vertebroplasty(VP) and KP under static loading. The improvement in the mechanical behavior of the vertebra, was observed as 54% decrease in the amount of maximum Von Misses stress(improvement of stress distribution), in trabecular cube with embedded hexagonal structure, as compared to VP and KP. This is comparable to the results of the experimental study already performed; it was shown that the improvement of mechanical behavior of the vertebra was observed as: 83% increase in the range of displacements before getting to the ultimate strength(increasing the toughness) after setting hexagonal pearls inside vertebrae. Both the material and geometry of implant influenced the amount of Von Mises stress in the structure.CONCLUSION The new proposed method can be offered as a substitute for the KP. The implant geometry had a more obvious effect on the amount of Von Mises stress, as compared to the implant material.

Dynamic analysis and optimization of car's body-in-white based on superelement approach

An approach based on the superelement theory is proposed, and it is applied to model the car's body-in-white as well as to dynamic simulation and optimization. This approach can improve the calculation speed and do the dynamic optimization among substructures respectively in the car's body design. To meet the car's design of harshness, a dynamic optimal design model, based on the mean square of vertical displacement response at two points of the car floor, is proposed. Satisfactory results are achieved.

AN UPDATING METHOD FOR LOCAL MODEL ERRORS

The location of model errors in a stiffness matrix by using test data has been investigated by the others.The present paper deals with the problem of updating stiffness elements in the erroneous areas. Firstly,a model that bears relation to erroneous elements only is derived.This model is termed local errors model,which reduces orders and computational loads compared with global stiffness matrix. Secondly,an inverse eigenvalue method is used to update model errors. The results of a numerical experiment demonstrate that the method is quite effective.

Numerical Modeling Strategy for the Simulation of Nonlinear Response of Slender Reinforced Concrete Structural Walls

A three-dimensional nonlinear modeling strategy for simulating the seismic response of slender reinforced concrete structural walls with different cross-sectional shapes is presented in this paper.A combination of nonlinear multi-layer shell elements and displacement-based beam-column elements are used to model the unconfined and confined parts of the walls,respectively.A uniaxial material model for reinforcing steel bars that includes buckling and low-cyclic fatigue effects is used to model the longitudinal steel bars within the structural walls.The material model parameters related to the buckling length are defined based on an analytical expression for reinforcing steel bars embedded in reinforced concrete elements,which are developed based on beam-on-springs model,and validated with experimental tests of boundary elements of structural walls available in the literature.Six experimental case studies of reinforced concrete walls with rectangularshape,T-shape,and U-shape cross-section are used to validate the structural wall numerical modeling strategy.

Beam Approximation for Dynamic Analysis of Launch Vehicles Modelled as Stiffened Cylindrical Shells

A beam approximation method for dynamic analysis of launch vehicles modelled as stiffened cylindrical shells is proposed.Firstly,an initial beam model of the stiffened cylindrical shell is established based on the cross-sectional area equivalence principle that represents the shell skin and its longitudinal ribs as a beam with annular cross-section,and the circumferential ribs as lumped masses at the nodes of the beam elements.Then,a fine finite element model(FE model)of the stiffened cylindrical shell is constructed and a modal analysis is carried out.Finally,the initial beam model is improved through model updating against the natural frequencies and mode shapes of the fine FE model of the shell.To facilitate the comparison between the mode shapes of the fine FE model of the stiffened shell and the equivalent beam model,a weighted nodal displacement coupling relationship is introduced.To prevent the design parameters used in model updating from converging to incorrect values,a pre-model updating procedure is added before the proper model updating.The results of two examples demonstrate that the beam approximation method presented in this paper can build equivalent beam models of stiffened cylindrical shells which can reflect the global longitudinal,lateral and torsional vibration characteristics very well in terms of the natural frequencies.

Contrastive analysis and crashworthiness optimization of two composite thin-walled structures

For the safety protection of passengers when train crashes occur, special structures are crucially needed as a kind of indispensable energy absorbing device. With the help of the structures, crash kinetic-energy can be completely absorbed or dissipated for the aim of safety. Two composite structures(circumscribed circle structure and inscribed circle structure) were constructed. In addition, comparison and optimization of the crashworthy characteristic of the two structures were carried out based on the method of explicit finite element analysis(FEA) and Kriging surrogate model. According to the result of Kriging surrogate model, conclusions can be safely drawn that the specific energy absorption(SEA) and ratio of specific energy absorption to initial peak force(REAF) of circumscribed circle structure are lager than those of inscribed circle structure under the same design parameters. In other words, circumscribed circle structure has better performances with higher energy-absorbing ability and lower initial peak force. Besides, error analysis was adopted and the result of which indicates that the Kriging surrogate model has high nonlinear fitting precision. What is more, the SEA and REAF optimum values of the two structures have been obtained through analysis, and the crushing results have been illustrated when the two structures reach optimum SEA and REAF.

Deformation coordination analysis of CC-RCC combined dam structures under dynamic loads

A combined dam structure using different concrete materials offers many practical benefits.There are several real-world cases where largevolume heterogeneous concrete materials have been used together.From the engineering design standpoint,it is crucial to understand the deformation coordination characteristics and mechanical properties of large-volume heterogeneous concrete,which affect dam safety and stability.In this study,a large dam facility was selected for a case study,and various design schemes of the combined dam structure were developed by changing the configurations of material zoning and material types for a given dam shape.Elastoplastic analysis of the damfoundation-reservoir system for six schemes was carried out under dynamic conditions,in which the concrete damaged plasticity(CDP)model,the Lagrangian finite element formulation,and a surface-to-surface contact model were utilized.To evaluate the mechanical properties of zoning interfaces and coordination characteristics,the vertical distribution of the first principal stress at the longitudinal joint was used as the critical index of deformation coordination control,and the overall deformation and damage characteristics of the dam were also investigated.Through a comparative study of the design schemes,an optimal scheme of the combined dam structure was identified:large-volume roller-compacted concrete(RCC)is recommended for the dam body upstream of the longitudinal joint,and high-volume fly ash conventional concrete(CC)for the dam body downstream of the longitudinal joint.This study provides engineers with a reference basis for combined dam structure design.

Constitutive model of disturbed soil-structure interface within mining subsidence areas

The characteristics of a disturbed soil-structure interface were studied based on the variation regularities of the disturbed soil within its mining subsidence area using direct shear tests.The effects of the initial moisture content on the shear strength parameters of the soil-structure interfaces were analyzed.The results indicate that the cohesion of the interface initially increased and then decreased as the initial moisture content increased.In addition,the friction angle of the interface decreased as the initial moisture content increased.A constitutive model of the disturbed soil-structure interface,a rigid-plastic model based on the initial void ratio and saturability(VSRP) model,was established based on the results.In order to validate this model,a finite element analysis of DRS-1 direct shear tests was conducted.The finite element model calculations coincided with the results of the DRS-1 direct shear tests.The proposed model also reflected the nonlinear features of the soil-structure interface.

Dynamical Model Updating Based on Modal Tests with Changed Structure

A new approach to modifying the stiffness and mass matrices of finite element models is presented to improve the calculation precision.By measuring the mode frequencies and shapes of both of the original and the new structures with changed stiffness and mass,the stiffness and mass matrices of the finite element model can be updated through matrices calculation and solving algebra equations.Taking a multi-freedom model as an example,the relation between the number of the modes and the correction precision of stiffness and mass matrix elements is researched.The facility and precision of the method are totally confirmed especially when the modeling error is known limited to a definite local range.The feasibility of the approach is proven by an effective engineering application to the model updating of a wing piece used in flutter test.

Model Simplification and Parameter Modification for Offshore Platforms Using Experiment Data

In this paper, a computation method has been developed so as to compare the finite element method (FEM) with the test results directly. The structure is divided into the 'master' and 'slave' degrees of freedom. The simplified model can be obtained with modal reduction. Then the design sensitivity analysis of the eigenvalues and eigenvectors has been carried out using the modal frequency and modal shape of the test. A two-story frame structure and a jacket model structure have been calculated. Meanwhile, the modified coefficient, the FEM computational and experimental values have been given. It has been shown that the FEM model modified using the test modal value is efficient.