To ensure the best results, it is important to understand the relationship between connector modeling techniques and HyperX Joint Load Extraction/Processing methods. Load extraction and processing differs based on whether the Joint is analyzed as an Edge Joint or Point Joint.
Note
Bolted Joints can be represented as Edge or Point Joints. However, when the connector elements are discretely modeled, they must be represented as Point Joints.
To make the most of HyperX's Bolted Joint capabilities, reference the image above and make the following considerations when modeling connector elements:
-
CBUSH elements must be attached either directly or via RBE to different Zones on both ends. If they are not connected to different Zones, HyperX will create 0 or 1 member Joints which have limited functionality.
-
RBE may be RBE2 or RBE3. RBE3 is recommended.
-
The outer-most 'Grid A' represents the connection to 'Sheet 1'. For countersunk fasteners, this will be the countersunk skin.
-
It is important to align 'Grid A' and 'Grid B' directions for each spring in series. However, the local shear (y-z) planes do not have to be perfectly aligned between springs - HyperX will make the proper transformations, into-sheet coordinates defined by material vectors, and shear force vector sums to compute the sheet bearing for Sheet 2.
-
HyperX can handle zero-length CBUSH elements (where 'Grid A' and 'Grid B' are coincident) for single and multi-lap joints with the following considerations:
-
They require a reference coordinate system, and the X-axis direction of that reference CS becomes the axial direction in HyperX.
-
Zero-length CBUSH elements in multi-lapped joints must all reference the same or identical coordinate systems, or HyperX won’t recognize them as being part of the same joint.
-
You can create a multi-lap joint that is a mix of zero-length and non-zero length CBUSHs, as long as the zero-length CBUSHs have a CS X-axis that aligns with the Grid A to B direction of the non-zero length element.
-