A Structural Dynamics Model Validation Example with Actual Hardware

This paper reports the results of a validation effort of a finite element structural dynamics model of a layered shell structure comprised of a metal layer, a glue layer and a fiber-reinforced composite layer. A validation plan linking requirements to response features through adequacy criteria was established before the structural analysis began. Uncertainty quantification was performed to determine whether dimensional tolerances were important, whether isotropic formulations could be used instead of orthotropic and to compare modal solutions from two different finite element analysis codes. Correlation efforts identified some errors in the model form as well as a calibration error. Significant uncertainty on some material properties was reduced by calibration experiments providing some indication of the spread of those properties. Confidence results from a blind prediction that meets validation adequacy criteria.