Study of Corner and Bathtub Attachments with Respect to Static Sizing

Abstract: This master thesis studied the possibilities of implementing new handbook methodologies for sizing of corner and bathtub attachments with respect to static strength.  Parametric studies of corner and bathtub attachments were performed in order to examine the effect of boundary conditions and vital dimensions with respect to static strength. The parametric studies were performed by solving FE-models of attachments with different dimensions. Variables such as flange thickness, end-plate thickness, end-plate length and total attachment width were varied in order to identify geometric trends for prediction of cross-sectional loads.  The FE-models consisted of a bolt, washer and attachment assembly. The bolt was subjected to pre-tension and contact conditions were applied in between each part. The parametric study examined the cross-sectional loads of critical cross sections of the end-plate, bolt, flanges and back.  The parametric study of the bathtub attachment resulted in verification of critical failure modes from earlier handbook methodology, as well as a foundation for a new handbook methodology for sizing with respect to static strength. The parametric study of the corner attachment resulted in an identification of critical failure modes. The non-symmetric configuration of a corner attachment was found to result in larger load distribution in the bolt shank cross section.