Non-linear idealisation error analysis of a metallic stiffened panel loaded in compression

The SAFESA procedure is an idealisation error control process developed for linear static finite element (FE) analysis. This paper investigates the application of this process to non-linear problems. The post-bucked collapse of a stiffened panel in compression is used as the case study. The main part of the paper presents the critical analysis of important modelling assumptions, including the material model, boundary conditions and geometrical imperfections. Several potential error sources are identified and then investigated using the non-linear FE code ABAQUS. The outcome of the analysis is an improved FE model and a quantification of the idealisation error.

► SAFESA is an idealisation error control process, developed for linear FEM.
► We investigate if the process can be applied to non-linear problems.
► Potential error sources include the material model, boundary conditions and geometrical imperfections.
► Outcome is an improved FE model and a quantification of the idealisation error.
► It was demonstrated that SAFESA can be applied to non-linear analyses.