Fastening Assemblies Modelling in Finite Difference Time Domain

This paper presents several original fasteners models in the FDTD method for aircraft applications. These simple models are compared with a proven wire model. They can be used whatever the fastener type and they can be easily implemented in a complete aircraft modelling. Each model is built in order to be equivalent to the resistive fastener behavior. This equivalence is theoretically detailed and then confirmed with a numerical validation highlighting the benefits and the limits of each model in the FDTD method. A circuit model is presented as an alternative to FDTD simulations. The main advantage of this model is the short computational time which allows us to make parametric studies. An original measurement bench dealing with current measurement is presented. Experimental results obtained on some models are provided showing excellent agreements with measurements.