Life-cycle simulation model for large scale welded structure-a basic study on welded joint model with consideration of the welded joint corrosion

Corrosion of the welded joint has been singled out as a main cause of damage to ships. Insufficient maintenance of ships causes severe accidents due to the deterioration of products. These accidents lead to serious problems ranging from environmental pollution caused by oil spills to loss of lives. In order to prevent such accidents, we should design the product's life cycle before designing the product, evaluate the life of the product, and make effective maintenance plans by computer simulation. Additionally, we should think of realizing the best product design front the viewpoint of life-cycle management. This paper presents a welded joint model that considers the effect of corrosion of the welded joint of a ship structure and presents a scenario for the collapse of a ship. In addition, a simulation method for evaluating product deterioration by corrosion of the welded joint is shown. In order to support a life-cycle design that takes corrosion into account, the authors have implemented a life-cycle simulation system based on a product model for computer-aided design and production.