ProFEA: A General Purpose Graphically-Based Probabilistic Finite Element Analysis System

This Phase I SBIR will develop a general purpose probabilistic finite element analysis system, ProFEA, that allows designers to perform probabilistic finite element analysis in a graphical environment that is completely familiar and similar to modern deterministic FEA. We have developed an innovative architecture that takes advantage of emerging file exchange and database standards (IGES and STEP) allowing users to employ their preferred FEA package, as well as their preferred CAD/Preprocessor package in conjunction with our custom GUI for probabilistic FEA. This approach also ensures that the system will not become an orphaned technology. IGES, which will migrate to STEP is becoming the international exchange standard and is being supported by all the major aerospace and CAD/CAE vendors. Probabilistic FEA has advanced so that it is now possible for specialists to solve complex problems and computational methods are well developed, including: FORM/SORM, response surface, and simulation. What remains to be done is to get these tools into the hands of practitioners and make them usable without extensive training. We will integrate in-house software for all of the major probabilistic computational methods mentioned above. The software will be demonstrated by analysis of a disk or compressor blade. our expert panel composed of J. Adamson, P. Roth, R. Lust, and T. Cruse will advise on system usability and functionality and test the software.