M. Muniz-Calvente

Abaqus2Matlab: A suitable tool for finite element post-processing

Abstract A suitable piece of software is presented to connect Abaqus, a sophisticated finite element package, with Matlab, the most comprehensive program for mathematical analysis. This interface between these well-known codes not only benefits from the image processing and the integrated graph-plotting features of Matlab but also opens up new opportunities in results post-processing, statistical analysis and mathematical optimization, among many other possibilities. The software architecture and usage are appropriately described and two problems of particular engineering significance are addressed to demonstrate its capabilities. Firstly, the software is employed to assess cleavage fracture through a novel 3-parameter Weibull probabilistic framework. Then, its potential to create and train neural networks is used to identify damage parameters through a hybrid experimental–numerical scheme, and model crack propagation in structural materials by means of a cohesive zone approach. The source code, detailed documentation and a large number of tutorials can be freely downloaded from www.abaqus2matlab.com .

Probabilistic Weibull Methodology for Fracture Prediction of Brittle and Ductile Materials

In this work, a three-parameter Weibull methodology for fracture prediction of brittle and ductile materials is presented. The approach proposed requires previous definition of the failure criterion to be applied. The parameter estimation is achieved for proportionally and non-proportionally increasing stresses. The case of two concurrent failure types is also handled. The resulting primary failure distribution can be expressed as a function of an effective size (length, area or volume) for its subsequent application in practical design of specimens or components using FEM.