Improvements in avionics-durability analyses

A software tool called ELIFE has been developed which will predict the fatigue life of solder joints, component leads, and plated through holes. ELIFE is also capable of identifying the critical components which require analysis, greatly simplifying life predictions. The results of complex finite element analyses of printed circuit assemblies are an integral part of the software, but are transparent to the user. Experimental tests have been used to improve the accuracy of ELIFE. Thermal, mechanical, and dynamic test results were used to obtain material properties previously unavailable. Test results were also used to validate the analytical models