On the characterisation of a generic hardening model beyond the onset of necking

Finite element model updating is an inverse method which enables to arrive at a complete solution for the diffuse necking of a thick tensile specimen. The method relies on the characterization of a phenomenological strain hardening model. Therefore, the method's accuracy is limited due to the predefined character of the analytical function. Consequently, identifying a generic strain hardening model is proposed in this work. First, different possible generic functions to characterize the actual strain hardening behaviour of a material have been scrutinized. Next, the optimal identification procedure has been examined whereof finally, the flexibility of the model has been probed.