Riveting Sequence Study of Horizontal Stabilizer Assembly Using Finite-Element Analysis and Riveting Equivalent Unit

Abstract

Ribs and edges are the typical deformable aluminum components of the horizontal stabilizer. Riveting is the most common method of joining ribs and edges. Riveting bulging is unavoidable but extremely undesirable in the aircraft assembly. When the bulging effects of rivets coupling, there will be deformation in the aircraft’s structure. Riveting sequence is one important approach to eliminate the coupling effect of the bulging and control the deformation of the aircraft structure. Riveting sequence study of horizontal stabilizer assembly was conducted using finite element method. A riveting equivalent unit is proposed and employed to analyze the deviation induced by different riveting sequences. Equivalent unit for riveting brings a good balance between accuracy and the computational efficiency in finite element analyzing. The results have shown that different riveting sequence results in different dimensional quality, and an optimal riveting sequence of the trailing edge is obtained. It will enhance the understanding of the compliant components assembly with riveting and help systematically improving the precision control efficiency in civil aircraft assembly.