Finite-element stress analysis of a non-linear problem: A connecting-road eye loaded by means of a pin

Abstract The stress analysis of a connecting rod under a tensile load represents a non-linear problem, since the distribution of the forces, acting between the eye of the rod and the pin, changes as the loading proceeds. This is due to the tendency of the eye to deform, thus wrapping itself around the pin as the clearance between the parts is reduced. In consequence, the stress pattern in the eye also changes. Such a problem has been solved with a linear elastic finite-element computer programme. A connecting-rod eye was idealized as a plane-stress problem and special elements were introduced to connect the pin and rod together. These elements were assigned stiffnesses which were changed in a prescribed manner after each iteration until compatibility of forces and displacements, with due allowance for initial clearances, was obtained at each connecting point. Although eight iterations were required to achieve the correct displacements, it was found that the circumferential stresses did not change appreciably after the first few iterations. Good agreement was found between the calculated stresses and those measured in a laboratory test with electrical-resistance strain gauges.