Fusion 360 Static FEA - Simulation of Clevis Pin Stresses

[andrewNCQLY]

Hi,

I am looking to run a static stress FEA analysis to determine how much force a pivot joint I designed can withstand. The two obvious flat sections of the joints are where they will be welded onto the rest of the design. I understand I need to fix one of these flat sections in place and then place a force pulling on the opposite flat face- that much is clear.

The trouble comes with the interaction of the clevis pin and the two joints. I have only been able to get the model to run by bonding the pin to the joints where it is touching, however, I do not believe this to be an accurate approach. It would be more accurate to use some sort of a non-binding surface contact since the pin will warp creating pressure points that will not show up if bonded. I have been extremely unsuccessful in finding a way to get Fusion to do this.

It would be wonderful if someone could help me figure out how to have this simulation run accurately. I have attached the model for reference. 

Thank you!!

[Zack.tenaglia]

In the simulation workspace, you can edit your contact types in the contact manager. An explanation of the different contact types can be found here: https://help.autodesk.com/view/fusion360/ENU/?guid=SIM-CONTACT-TYPES

For your example, I think the most accurate representation of the contact is "separation," since the pin can technically separate from the clevises. You may have to define some MANUAL contacts, since the pin is not touching either clevis to start. The process is pretty straightforward (https://help.autodesk.com/view/fusion360/ENU/?guid=GUID-2A413155-1C36-4C7E-A1C4-D424AC836908). 

You may end up with a setup that isn't fully constrained, since you're basically trying to constrain the movement of the clevises/pin with contacts. 

Hope this is helpful!

Zack