Optimization of riveting parameters using Kriging and particle swarm optimization to improve deformation homogeneity in aircraft assembly

Abstract

Riveting parameters have significant effects on the material growth/material expansion and quality of a joint. However, the inhomogeneity of material growth leads to assembly deformation and degrades the dimensional accuracy of the final products. This study aims to propose an integration method to optimize riveting parameters using finite element method and Kriging metamodels with particle swarm optimization in slug rivet joint. Five key process parameters were considered in this article, including squeezing force, buck cavity, upsetting rise time, upsetting dwell time, and clamping force between sheets. First, a quarter three-dimensional finite element model was established to acquire the simulation results of rivet hole expansion and sheet bulging value. Based on the finite element method results, Kriging surrogate models were built to reflect the mapping relationship between process parameters and the focused target. Subsequently, a multi-objective optimization method, particle swarm optimization, was used to search for Pareto-optimal solution. Finally, by comparing the assembly deformation with 10-rivet coupons, the results showed that the optimized riveting parameters could improve the deformation homogeneity.