A virtual design of experiments method to evaluate the effect of design andwelding parameters on weld quality in aerospace applications
Journal article, 2019

During multidisciplinary design of welded aircraft components, designs are principally optimized upon component performance, employing well-established modelling and simulation techniques. On the contrary, because of the complexity of modelling welding process phenomena, much of the welding experimentation relies on physical testing, which means welding producibility aspects are considered after the design has already been established. In addition, welding optimization research mainly focuses on welding process parameters, overlooking the potential impact of product design. As a consequence, redesign loops and welding rework increases product cost. To solve these problems, in this article, a novel method that combines the benefits of design of experiments (DOE) techniques with welding simulation is presented. The aim of the virtual design of experiments method is to model and optimize the effect of design and welding parameters interactions early in the design process. The method is explained through a case study, in which weld bead penetration and distortion are quality responses to optimize. First, a small number of physical welds are conducted to develop and tune the welding simulation. From this activity, a new combined heat source model is presented. Thereafter, the DOE technique optimal design is employed to design an experimental matrix that enables the conjointly incorporation of design and welding parameters. Welding simulations are then run and a response function is obtained. With virtual experiments, a large number of design and welding parameter combinations can be tested in a short time. In conclusion, the creation of a meta-model allows for performing welding producibility optimization and robustness analyses during early design phases of aircraft components.

Welding producibility

Aerospace design for manufacturing

Welding simulation

Design of experiments

Author

Julia Madrid

Chalmers, Industrial and Materials Science, Product Development

Samuel C Lorin

Fraunhofer-Chalmers Centre

Rikard Söderberg

Chalmers, Industrial and Materials Science

Peter Hammersberg

Chalmers, Industrial and Materials Science, Engineering Materials

Kristina Wärmefjord

Chalmers, Industrial and Materials Science, Product Development

Johan Lööf

GKN Aerospace Sweden

Aerospace

22264310 (eISSN)

Vol. 6 6 74

Subject Categories

Aerospace Engineering

Manufacturing, Surface and Joining Technology

Vehicle Engineering

DOI

10.3390/AEROSPACE6060074

More information

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1/3/2024 9