Application of 3D Digital Image Correlation for Development and Validation of FEM Model of Self-Supporting Arch Structures

Abstract

Many building structures, due to a complex geometry and non-linear material properties, are cumbersome to analyze with finite element method (FEM). A good example is a self-supporting arch-shaped steel sheets. Considering the uncommon geometry and material profile of an arch (due to plastic deformations, cross section of a trough, a goffer pattern), the local loss of stability can occur in unexpected regions. Therefore, the hybrid experimental-numerical methodology of analysis and optimization of arch structures have been proposed. The methodology is based on three steps of development and validation of a FEM with utilization of a digital image correlation (DIC) method. The experiments are performed by means of 3D DIC systems adopted sequentially for each measurement step conditions from small size sections, through few segment constructions up to full scale in situ objects.

Keywords

• experimental-numerical method
• digital image correlation
• finite element method
• static analysis
• arch structures