Bonded joints design aided by computational tool

Abstract

In order to aid the design of bonded joints, a computational tool named System of Analysis for Joints (SAJ) was developed. The software can analyze single and double lap bonded joint with composite-composite or metal-composite materials as adherent parts. Thus, SAJ can calculate the stress distribution, loads and displacements. Their results were compared to finite element software (ABAQUSTM) and to specific composite analysis software (ESACompTM). After that, a study about the influence of joint design parameters on the mechanical behavior of the bonded joint was carried out. In regards to parametric study, SAJ leads to some conclusions, which can be used as a guide during the product design process. Therefore, aided by the computational tool, it is possible to perform a conceptual and preliminary design of bonded joints with more accuracy and varying many parameters (materials; fiber orientation and stacking sequence of the laminate; thickness; overlap length).