Abstract: The durability performance of a structure is virtually predicted, enabling the optimization of the durability performance. In a first act, the structure is modeled by a series of calculation points. Then, for each point, the stresses and strains brought by load cycles and defining hysteresis branches are determined. Then, an accumulated damage due to the load cycles is predicted and stored. For the prediction, first, using a hysteresis operator, a change in the stress along a portion of a hysteresis branch is calculated as a function of a change in the load in time, and, second, using the change in the stress and the stored accumulated damage, a change in the damage is calculated. Hence, also a change in the properties, including the stiffness, of the structure is calculated. Then, a further change in the stresses and strains is calculated on the basis of the change in these properties to determine a new adapted hysteresis branch.

Abstract: A damper is provided on a convertible for the dampling of bodyside torsional vibrations in the area of the windshield frame. This damper is arranged particularly on the frame of the windshield and is held by way of elastic slide bearings. The damper is arranged in the open at a distance from the frame and can swing relatively freely in the transverse directions of the vehicle so that natural torsional frequencies of the vehicle on the frame are damped.