Shape Sensing of a Complex Aeronautical Structure with Inverse Finite Element Method

Area of Science:

• Structural analysis
• Computational mechanics
• Aerospace engineering

Background:

• The inverse Finite Element Method (iFEM) is a promising technique for shape sensing, offering material and load independence.
• Defining iFEM models for complex structures with partial strain data presents significant challenges.
• Accurate geometry and boundary condition definition are crucial for iFEM's success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simplified iFEM model for shape sensing in complex structures.
• To address challenges posed by reduced geometrical complexity and partial input strain fields.
• To validate the simplified iFEM approach using both numerical and experimental data.

Main Methods:

• A simplified iFEM model was proposed, reducing geometrical complexity and tuning boundary conditions.
• The method was validated using a complex aeronautical structure.
• Numerical simulations provided reference displacement fields from direct finite element analysis.
• Experimental strain measurements were used to assess performance under uncertainty.

Main Results:

• The simplified iFEM model demonstrated effectiveness in shape sensing for complex structures.
• The approach successfully utilized partial strain field inputs.
• The method's performance was validated even with high levels of experimental uncertainty.

Conclusions:

• The simplified iFEM model offers a viable solution for shape sensing in complex structures.
• This method overcomes limitations associated with partial strain data and geometrical complexity.
• The research confirms the robustness of the simplified iFEM approach in practical applications.