Surrogate-based sensitivity analysis and finite element model updating of welded plates

Surrogate-based finite element (FE) model updating of two welded plates is performed using experimental modal parameters in an optimization framework based on a multi-objective genetic algorithm. Since there are some uncertainties in the structure, sensitivity analysis is conducted to investigate the effect of different geometric and material properties on the modal parameters. Moreover, because the welding process introduces some residual stresses to the plates, the effect of using the pre-stressed modal analysis in the updating process is also investigated. Based on the obtained results, considering the pre-stressed condition reduces the errors of the updated FE model.