Overview
3D Bolt Group Analysis
The 3D Bolt Group tool performs a rigorous failure analysis of generic fastener patterns in 3D space. It uses a rigid-body stiffness matrix formulation to compute the reaction loads at each fastener based on its location and relative stiffness.
This tool is essential for determining how applied forces and moments distribute across a pattern of bolts, rivets, or other fasteners, allowing engineers to size the fasteners appropriately.
Stiffness Matrix
Assembles a 6×6 global stiffness matrix considering the relative stiffnesses (kx, ky, kz) and coordinates of all fasteners.
Reaction Loads
Resolves applied loads to the group centroid and distributes them to fasteners as shear and axial reactions.