Incorporation of a Simplified Mechanical Joint Model into Numerical Analysis

In the development of new joining technologies, incorporation of mechanical joints in computer analyses for the evaluation of structures can be carried out by a practical, simplified mechanical joint model. Here, two most frequently used joining technologies were analysed, a self-piercing rivet joint and a clinch joint. Physical tests of static load capacity of the joints were performed and numerical models for simulations were set-up. An optimization method was designed for estimating the material parameters of the mechanical joint for the needs of numerical analyses. For optimization purposes during the plan of experiments, a range of possible parameter values was investigated using a response surface method, results of simulations, results of physical tests and a genetic algorithm. The results of simulations using the optimal values of the material parameters are comparable to the experimental observations for the both joints.