Finite element analysis of spotwelded, bonded and weldbonded lap joints

: Finite element computer analyses of single-lap and double-lap structural joints are described. A planform analysis articulates the in-plane deformation of the joined sheet material and the lap-shear stresses acting through the spotwelds and/or adhesive. A longitudinal cross-section analysis computes out-of-plane bending effects, particularly important in single-lap joints, and adhesive peel stresses. Numerical results are presented that suggest a reasonable degree of mutual consistency between the planform analysis and the cross-section analysis. Although the basic finite element formulation is linear, nonlinear deformation can be simulated by a series of linear solutions. The computer output includes contour plots of stress and strain fields and exaggerated-scale plots of displacements.