Optimization of a FEA Beam Element Model for

Computational Speed and Accuracy

Brent Weight

and

Ryan Weight

Constant-Force Electrical Contact

Electrical Contact on Unit

Constant-Force Electrical Contact

Dock Motion

Cam

Printed Circuit Board

Docking Station

Dockable Unit

Constant-Force Electrical Contact Cont.

General Model

Keypoints and Line elements

Lines divided into elements

BC’s and Loads

1

2

45

6

7

8

9

10

1112

23

21

22

20

100

3

A

B

C

D

EF

G

H

IJ

General Model - Deflection

FEA Optimization

Optimization requires numerous model calls Computationally expensive

Can we reduce the model run time?

Element Methods

1. Proportional MethodShorter beams have less elements

2. Equal MethodEach beam as same number of elements

Can we minimize the number of elements needed for an accurate model?

Linear vs. Nonlinear

Are linear elements sufficient for an accurate model?

Convergence

Proportional Method

Equal Method

Results

NonLinear Original N/A 45.685 14.7 82NonLinear Proportional 10 45.685 13.12 50 39.0%Nonlinear Equal 9 45.687 11.84 43 47.6%Linear Proportional Not Feasible N/A N/A N/A N/ALinear Equal Not Feasible 3258 3.39 21 74.4%

Percentage of Time Saved

Converged Force (gf)

Elapsed Time (Sec)

Analysis Method Element MethodOptimal Number/ Ratio of Elements

CP Time (Sec)

Time SavingsMethod Number of Calls Elapsed Time (Sec) Elapsed Time (Hr) Time SavedOriginal 200 16400 4.56Optimal 200 8600 2.39

2.17

47 % Savings

Conclusion

Minimization results in significant time savings

Minimum of 9 elements per beam required Linearization will not work on this model

Questions?