Finite Element Model Validation, Updating, and Uncertainty Quantification for Linear and Non-linear Models

A 2-Day Short Course for Aerospace, Civil and Mechanical Engineers from Oct. 27-28, 2008

Offered in conjunction with the NAFEMS 2008 Regional Summit

Note: Discounts are available when registering for this course.

"Bring a friend" discount:

• Initial registrant = standard rate
• Additional registrants = 20% discount off of the qualifying rate

"NAFEMS 2020" discount:

• Register for NAFEMS 2020, and receive a 15% discount off the qualifying rate. (Note: Please contact Matthew Ladzinski to make this arrangement.)

Contact Matthew Ladzinski if you have any questions related to pricing.

“Do You Know Everything That You Should About Your Finite Element Model?”

How closely do predictions match the real-world response of the structure?

Is the discretization sufficient to asymptotically converge the numerical solution?

How much do errors in model input parameters impact the accuracy of predictions?

Which of the input parameters have the greatest influence on prediction quantities of interest?

• Learn the latest techniques for evaluating the accuracy of your models over a range of parameter values.
• Learn how to design validation experiments that will help determine the model’s true range of validity.
• Learn how to calibrate your model parameters to reflect the measured response from the experiment — even for non-linear models!

Course Synopsis

When an engineer or analyst builds a finite element model, the results should be trustworthy. But how does one know (and prove quantitatively) that the predictions can be believed with a given level of confidence? Recent research in the areas of solution verification, finite element model validation, sensitivity analysis, uncertainty analysis, and test-analysis correlation has led to the development of a methodology to answer these questions and more, enabling one to use his/her finite element model predictions with confidence. This course will provide an overview of the latest technology for evaluating and improving the accuracy and validity of linear and non-linear finite element models. The course provides a blend of research and real-world applications in the fields of aerospace, automotive, and civil engineering.

Course Goals

Upon completion of this course, attendees will be able to:

• Describe the model validation paradigm of input-output effect analysis, test/analysis correlation, and uncertainty analysis;
• Summarize the history of finite element model test/analysis correlation and updating;
• Conduct code verification, solution verification, and solution self-convergence studies;
• Describe the process for selecting and computing appropriate response features from the model outputs;
• Discuss current techniques for global sensitivity analysis and parameter screening;
• Explain the role of designs of experiments (DOE) and analysis of variance (ANOVA) in model validation;
• Define appropriate test/analysis correlation metrics for model calibration and revision.

Upon completion of this course, attendees will have learned:

• The latest techniques for evaluating the accuracy of computational models over a range of parameter values;
• How to design validation experiments that will help determine the simulation range of validity;
• How to calibrate model parameters to reflect the measured response from experiments — even for non-linear models!

Course Outline

• Introduction
• Historical overview
• Feature extraction
• Code verification and solution convergence
• Uncertainty propagation and quantification
• Local and global sensitivity analysis
• Meta-modeling, surrogate modeling
• Design of validation experiment
• Test-analysis correlation and validation metrics
• Model revision and updating
• Applications for linear and non-linear structural dynamics

Sample course notes at www.la-dynamics.com .

Please direct questions to hemez@la-dynamics.com .

The instructors will assume a basic knowledge of structural mechanics, dynamics, and mathematics, such as that obtained in a bachelor’s level aerospace, civil, or mechanical engineering program. To ensure top-quality content, the instructors reserve the right to alter the course schedule. Los Alamos Dynamics is an independent company, not affiliated with the Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Venue, Location and Accomodation

Click for more information on the venue, location and accomodation .

NAFEMS Travel Policy : NAFEMS is not responsible for the purchase of non-refundable airline tickets or the cancellation/change fees associated with canceling a flight. Please call to confirm that the course is running before purchasing airline tickets. NAFEMS retains the right to cancel a course up to 3 weeks before scheduled presentation date.