An Optimization Procedure to Convert Time-Domain Complex Loadings to the Frequency Domain for Low-Cost Fatigue Analysis

Abstract

The time domain is the most widely chosen alternative in mechanical fatigue tests to completely represent random events. However, the main disadvantages of this approach are the long time required to complete the tests and the high cost of the complex equipment. On the other hand, fatigue test in the frequency domain is a potential alternative to overcome these disadvantages. That is, it requires less sophisticated equipment, because it uses only simple actuators instead of servo actuators. Moreover, the duration of the fatigue test is reduced, because the total length of the event is replaced by constant repetitions and constant damage. The objective of this work is to propose and develop a methodology that uses the results of structural fatigue as a starting point, and through an optimization problem solved by the genetic algorithm, it determines which loads/displacements caused them in the frequency domain. The purpose is to assist future developments in fatigue tests, supplanting tests in the time domain without losing the correlation in results.