Tolerance Analysis of Adhesive Bonds in Crash Simulation

The influences of geometrical parameters like adhesive layer thickness and gap-filling on the mechanical properties of adhesively bonded joints are investigated by means of experimental studies with controlled parameter variations. In addition, corresponding simulation models are used to analyse these effects. As a result, the behaviour of joints under variation of manufacturing parameters can be reproduced with high accuracy. Furthermore, the validated simulation models are used to perform sensitivity analysis on a component-like specimen. Based on these studies, tolerance ranges can be specified and robust design optimisation can be carried out.