Method for Determining the Fracture Mechanical Stress of at Least One Crack Under Load of a Component, Computer Program Product and Device for Carrying Out the Method, and Their Use

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This patent describes a method, computer program, and device for determining the fracture mechanical load (stress intensity factors) on one or more cracks in a component when subjected to mechanical loading. The process involves using optical measurement systems (such as digital image correlation or video extensometers) to track the displacement of virtual measurement markers placed near crack tips, allowing the calculation of relevant fracture mechanics parameters. Notably, the method can be applied in-situ to real components of any geometry and under various loading conditions, and does not require time-consuming finite element (FE) calculations or detailed prior knowledge of the applied forces.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Monitoring structural integrity of bridges, aircraft, ships, or other infrastructure for crack growth in-service
• Quality control and lifetime prediction of industrial parts (such as pipelines, pressure vessels, turbines)
• Non-destructive evaluation and maintenance planning for critical mechanical components
• Research and development for fracture behavior in new materials under complex loading
• In-situ diagnostics during mechanical testing or field inspections without disassembly

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Works irrespective of component geometry or loading type (uniaxial, multiaxial, static, dynamic, cyclic)
• Non-contact, optical measurement enables real-time, in-situ crack assessment without disturbing the structure
• No need for complex, time-consuming finite element simulations to evaluate stress intensity factors
• Automatically accommodates for different crack paths, including branched or kinked cracks, enhancing reliability
• Enables precise monitoring even in components at their operational site (e.g., a bridge or engine in use)
• Supports automation and integration with existing digital optical measurement systems for ease of use

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Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a method for determining the fracture mechanical load of at least one crack when a component having at least one crack is loaded, and to a computer program product and a device for carrying out the method and to the use thereof. The method makes it possible to determine, in a simple manner, the stress intensity factors irrespective of the geometry of the component, the type of load of the component and the crack profile. The method also makes it possible to determine the stress intensity factors on real components in the installation position at their place of use.