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Article
Publication date: 31 May 2024

Mario Versaci, Giovanni Angiulli, Luisa Angela Fattorusso, Paolo Di Barba and Alessandra Jannelli

Based on previous results of the existence, uniqueness, and regularity conditions for a continuous dynamic model for a parallel-plate electrostatic…

Abstract

Purpose

Based on previous results of the existence, uniqueness, and regularity conditions for a continuous dynamic model for a parallel-plate electrostatic micro-electron-mechanical-systems with the fringing field, the purpose of this paper concerns a Galerkin-FEM procedure for deformable element deflection recovery. The deflection profiles are reconstructed by assigning the dielectric properties of the moving element. Furthermore, the device’s use conditions and the deformable element’s mechanical stresses are presented and discussed.

Design/methodology/approach

The Galerkin-FEM approach is based on weighted residuals, where the integrals appearing in the solution equation have been solved using the Crank–Nicolson algorithm.

Findings

Based on the connection between the fringing field and the electrostatic force, the proposed approach reconstructs the deflection of the deformable element, satisfying the conditions of existence, uniqueness and regularity. The influence of the electromechanical properties of the deformable plate on the method has also been considered and evaluated.

Research limitations/implications

The developed analytical model focused on a rectangular geometry.

Practical implications

The device studied is suitable for industrial and biomedical applications.

Originality/value

This paper proposed numerical approach characterized by low CPU time enables the creation of virtual prototypes that can be analyzed with significant cost reduction and increased productivity.

Details

COMPEL - The international journal for computation and mathematics in electrical and electronic engineering , vol. 43 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0332-1649

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 May 2024

Dadasikandar Kanekal, Eshan Sabhapandit, Sumit Kumar Jindal and Hemprasad Yashwant Patil

The purpose of this research is to study the performance of piezoresistive pressure sensors using polysilicon as the piezoresistive material, which is typically used to measure…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to study the performance of piezoresistive pressure sensors using polysilicon as the piezoresistive material, which is typically used to measure pressure in high-temperature environments.

Design/methodology/approach

The performance of this sensor is enhanced by studying the influence of multi-turn configuration at which the piezoresistors are arranged. Different configurations are studied and compared by laying down their analytical solution.

Findings

The validation of analytical results is accomplished through finite element analysis using the software COMSOL Multiphysics. The best configuration, which uses a partial triple-turn configuration, was able to achieve a sensitivity of 116.00 mV/V/MPa over a simulated pressure range of 0 to 500 KPa.

Originality/value

The literature shows the study of single-turn and double-turn meander-shaped configuration of micro-electromechanical systems piezoresistive pressure sensor but multi-turn meander-shaped configuration using a square silicon diaphragm has not been reported. Its study has reflected promising results than its counterparts based on key performance parameters such as sensitivity and linearity and are more effective to be used for automotive, aviation, biomedical and consumer electronics applications.

Details

Sensor Review, vol. 44 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0260-2288

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 April 2024

Hesham Mohsen Hussein Omar, Mohamed Fawzy Aly Mohamed and Said Megahed

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the process of fused filament fabrication (FFF) of a compliant gripper (CG) using thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material. The paper…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the process of fused filament fabrication (FFF) of a compliant gripper (CG) using thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material. The paper studies the applicability of different CG designs and the efficiency of some design parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

After reviewing a number of different papers, two designs were selected for a number of exploratory experiments. Using design of experiments (DOE) techniques to identify important design parameters. Finally, the efficiency of the parts was investigated.

Findings

The research finds that a simpler design sacrifices some effectiveness in exchange for a remarkable decrease in production cost. Decreasing infill percentage of previous designs and 3D printing them, out of TPU, experimenting with different parameters yields functional products. Moreover, the paper identified some key parameters for further optimization attempts of such prototypes.

Research limitations/implications

The cost of conducting FFF experiments for TPU increases dramatically with product size, number of parameters studied and the number of experiments. Therefore, all three of these factors had to be kept at a minimum. Further confirmatory experiments encouraged.

Originality/value

This paper addresses an identified need to investigate applications of FFF and TPU in manufacturing functional efficient flexible mechanisms, grippers specifically. While most research focused on designing for increased performance, some research lacks discussion on design philosophy, as well as manufacturing issues. As the needs for flexible grippers vary from high-performance grippers to lower performance grippers created for specific functions/conditions, some effectiveness can be sacrificed to reduce cost, reduce complexity and improve applicability in different robotic assemblies and environments.

Details

Industrial Robot: the international journal of robotics research and application, vol. 51 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-991X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 April 2024

Ellen A. Donnelly, Madeline Stenger, Daniel J. O'Connell, Adam Gavnik, Jullianne Regalado and Laura Bayona-Roman

This study explores the determinants of police officer support for pre-arrest/booking deflection programs that divert people presenting with substance use and/or mental health…

Abstract

Purpose

This study explores the determinants of police officer support for pre-arrest/booking deflection programs that divert people presenting with substance use and/or mental health disorder symptoms out of the criminal justice system and connect them to supportive services.

Design/methodology/approach

This study analyzes responses from 254 surveys fielded to police officers in Delaware. Questionnaires asked about views on leadership, approaches toward crime, training, occupational experience and officer’s personal characteristics. The study applies a new machine learning method called kernel-based regularized least squares (KRLS) for non-linearities and interactions among independent variables. Estimates from a KRLS model are compared with those from an ordinary least square regression (OLS) model.

Findings

Support for diversion is positively associated with leadership endorsing diversion and thinking of new ways to solve problems. Tough-on-crime attitudes diminish programmatic support. Tenure becomes less predictive of police attitudes in the KRLS model, suggesting interactions with other factors. The KRLS model explains a larger proportion of the variance in officer attitudes than the traditional OLS model.

Originality/value

The study demonstrates the usefulness of the KRLS method for practitioners and scholars seeking to illuminate patterns in police attitudes. It further underscores the importance of agency leadership in legitimizing deflection as a pathway to addressing behavioral health challenges in communities.

Details

Policing: An International Journal, vol. 47 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1363-951X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 May 2023

Fatimah De’nan, Nor Salwani Hashim and Mohd Yusri Mohamad Razak

Tapered steel sections are widely used in house building design due to their structural efficiency and aesthetic appearance. Due to the practical usage of web tapering…

Abstract

Purpose

Tapered steel sections are widely used in house building design due to their structural efficiency and aesthetic appearance. Due to the practical usage of web tapering specifications in the metal building industry, fabrication and material expenses are analyzed to achieve geometric and economic productivity. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of utilizing web profiles with openings in reducing the weight of steel beams.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the nonlinear analysis of the bending behavior of a tapered steel section with an opening was studied by finite element analysis. The results were then compared with those of the tapered steel section without an opening in terms of displacement and yield moment.

Findings

The bending capacity of a tapered steel section was analyzed using finite element analysis. Results showed that the tapered steel section without openings had a higher bending capacity compared to the section with various sizes of web openings. The results also showed that decreasing the number of openings would increase the bending capacity, whereas increasing the size of the opening would decrease it. The difference in the yield moment between the tapered steel section with and without openings was only 15.818%. A total of 60 nonlinear analyses were conducted to investigate the effect of the number and size of web openings, flange thickness and web thickness on the bending behavior. However, this study showed that web opening with octagon shape and 0.6D size of web opening, where D is the depth of section, showed the best section in terms of yield moment and volume reduction compared to other opening size and shape.

Originality/value

It is also found that tapered steel section has better moment resistance in thicker flange and web. The study is valuable for engineers and designers who work with steel structures and need to optimize the performance of tapered steel sections with web openings.

Details

World Journal of Engineering, vol. 21 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1708-5284

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 May 2024

Jiahao Jiang, Jinliang Liu, Shuolei Cao, Sheng Cao, Rui Dong and Yusen Wu

The purpose of this study is to use the corrected stress field theory to derive the shear capacity of geopolymer concrete beams (GPC) and consider the shear-span ratio as a major…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to use the corrected stress field theory to derive the shear capacity of geopolymer concrete beams (GPC) and consider the shear-span ratio as a major factor affecting the shear capacity. This research aims to provide guidance for studying the shear capacity of GPC and to observe how the failure modes of beams change with the variation of the shear-span ratio, thereby discovering underlying patterns.

Design/methodology/approach

Three test beams with shear span ratios of 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 are investigated in this paper. For GPC beams with shear-span ratios of 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5, ultimate capacities are 337kN, 235kN and 195kN, respectively. Transitioning from 1.5 to 2.0 results in a 30% decrease in capacity, a reduction of 102kN. Moving from 2.0 to 2.5 sees a 17% decrease, with a loss of 40KN in capacity. A shear capacity formula, derived from modified compression field theory and considering concrete shear strength, stirrups and aggregate interlocking force, was validated through finite element modeling. Additionally, models with shear ratios of 1 and 3 were created to observe crack propagation patterns.

Findings

For GPC beams with shear-span ratios of 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5, ultimate capacities of 337KN, 235KN and 195KN are achieved, respectively. A reduction in capacity of 102KN occurs when transitioning from 1.5 to 2.0 and a decrease of 40KN is observed when moving from 2.0 to 2.5. The average test-to-theory ratio, at 1.015 with a variance of 0.001, demonstrates strong agreement. ABAQUS models beams with ratios ranging from 1.0 to 3.0, revealing crack trends indicative of reduced crack angles with higher ratios. The failure mode observed in the models aligns with experimental results.

Originality/value

This article provides a reference for the shear bearing capacity formula of geopolymer reinforced concrete (GRC) beams, addressing the limited research in this area. Additionally, an exponential model incorporating the shear-span ratio as a variable was employed to calculate the shear capacity, based on previous studies. Moreover, the analysis of shear capacity results integrated literature from prior research. By fitting previous experimental data to the proposed formula, the accuracy of this study's derived formula was further validated, with theoretical values aligning well with experimental results. Additionally, guidance is offered for utilizing ABAQUS in simulating the failure process of GRC beams.

Details

International Journal of Structural Integrity, vol. 15 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1757-9864

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 July 2024

Yongliang Wang, Liangchun Li and Nana Liu

With the development of fracturing technology, the research of multi-well hydrofracturing becomes the key issue. Frac-hits in multi-well hydrofracturing has an important effect on…

Abstract

Purpose

With the development of fracturing technology, the research of multi-well hydrofracturing becomes the key issue. Frac-hits in multi-well hydrofracturing has an important effect on fracture propagation and final production of fractured well; in the process of hydrofracturing, there are many implement parameters that can affect frac-hits, and previous studies in this area have not systematically targeted the influence of a single parameter on multi-well hydrofracturing. Therefore, it is of great significance to study the occurrence rule and influence of frac-hits for optimizing the design of fracturing wells.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the proposed numerical models, the effects of different fracturing implement parameters (perforation cluster spacing, well spacing and injection rate) on frac-hits are compared in numerical cases. Through the analysis of fracture network, stress field and microseismic, the effects of different fracturing implement parameters on frac-hits and connections are compared.

Findings

The simulation results show that the effect of perforation cluster spacing and well spacing on frac-hits is greater than that of injection rate. Smaller well spacing makes it easier for fractures between adjacent wells to interact with each other, which increases the risk of frac-hits and reduces the risk of fracture connections. Smaller perforation cluster spacing results in larger individual fracture lengths and greater deflection angles, which makes the possibility of frac-hits and connections greater. The lower the injection rate, the lower the probability of frac-hits.

Originality/value

In this study, the influence of different fracturing implement parameters on frac-hits and connections in multi-well hydrofracturing is studied, and the mechanism of frac-hits and connections is analyzed through fracture network, stress field and microseismic analysis. Different simulation results are compared to optimize fracturing well parameter design and provide reference for engineering application.

Details

Engineering Computations, vol. 41 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-4401

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 July 2024

Lijun Wan, Jiaqi Qiao and Quansheng Sun

The application of reinforcing old bridges by adding external prestressed steel bundles is becoming more and more widespread. However, the long-term safety performance test of the…

Abstract

Purpose

The application of reinforcing old bridges by adding external prestressed steel bundles is becoming more and more widespread. However, the long-term safety performance test of the strengthening method is rarely carried out. In this paper, the bearing capacity of a 420 m prestressed concrete (PC) continuous girder bridge after five years of strengthening is analyzed.

Design/methodology/approach

The bridge model of the bridge structure and strengthening scheme is established by the finite element software of the bridge. The theoretical load-bearing capacity of the bridge under the latest standard load grade is obtained by finite element analysis. The actual bearing capacity of the bridge is obtained by field test. Through the comparative analysis of theory and practice, the health state of the bridge after five years of reinforced operation is judged. The damage to the overall stiffness and external prestressing of the bridge is also analyzed.

Findings

The results of deflection and strain show that the stiffness and strength of the secondary side span and the middle span decrease slightly, and the maximum reduction of bearing capacity is 4.5%. The static stiffness of the whole bridge decreases as a result of cracks, and the maximum decrease is 21%. In the past five years, the relaxation loss of the external prestressing of the bridge is 3.31–3.97%, which is the main reason for the decrease in bearing capacity.

Originality/value

Through the joint analysis of the bridge stiffness and the loss of external prestressing, the strengthening condition of the bridge after five years of operation is effectively analyzed. The strengthening effect of the external prestressed steel beam strengthening method is analyzed, which can provide a reference for similar bridge strengthening.

Details

International Journal of Structural Integrity, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1757-9864

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 February 2024

Xiang Shen, Kai Zeng, Liming Yang, Chengyong Zhu and Laurent Dala

This paper aims to study passive control techniques for transonic flow over a backward-facing step (BFS) using square-lobed trailing edges. The study investigates the efficacy of…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to study passive control techniques for transonic flow over a backward-facing step (BFS) using square-lobed trailing edges. The study investigates the efficacy of upward and downward lobe patterns, different lobe widths and deflection angles on flow separation, aiming for a deeper understanding of the flow physics behind the passive flow control system.

Design/methodology/approach

Large Eddy Simulation and Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes were used to evaluate the results of the study. The research explores the impact of upward and downward patterns of lobes on flow separation through the effects of different lobe widths and deflection angles. Numerical methods are used to analyse the behaviour of transonic flow over BFS and compared it to existing experimental results.

Findings

The square-lobed trailing edges significantly enhance the reduction of mean reattachment length by up to 80%. At Ma = 0.8, the up-downward configuration demonstrates increased effectiveness in reducing the root mean square of pressure fluctuations at a proximity of 5-step height in the wake region, with a reduction of 50%, while the flat-downward configuration proves to be more efficient in reducing the root mean square of pressure fluctuations at a proximity of 1-step height in the near wake region, achieving a reduction of 71%. Furthermore, the study shows that the up-downward configuration triggers early spanwise velocity fluctuations, whereas the standalone flat-downward configuration displays less intense crosswise velocity fluctuations within the wake region.

Practical implications

The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of square-lobed trailing edges as passive control techniques, showing significant implications for improving efficiency, performance and safety of the design in aerospace and industrial systems.

Originality/value

This paper demonstrates that the square-lobed trailing edges are effective in reducing the mean reattachment length and pressure fluctuations in transonic conditions. The study evaluates the efficacy of different configurations, deflection angles and lobe widths on flow and provides insights into the flow physics of passive flow control systems.

Details

International Journal of Numerical Methods for Heat & Fluid Flow, vol. 34 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0961-5539

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 August 2024

Ibrahim T. Teke and Ahmet H. Ertas

The paper's goal is to examine and illustrate the useful uses of submodeling in finite element modeling for topology optimization and stress analysis. The goal of the study is to…

Abstract

Purpose

The paper's goal is to examine and illustrate the useful uses of submodeling in finite element modeling for topology optimization and stress analysis. The goal of the study is to demonstrate how submodeling – more especially, a 1D approach – can reliably and effectively produce ideal solutions for challenging structural issues. The paper aims to demonstrate the usefulness of submodeling in obtaining converged solutions for stress analysis and optimized geometry for improved fatigue life by studying a cantilever beam case and using beam formulations. In order to guarantee the precision and dependability of the optimization process, the developed approach will also be validated through experimental testing, such as 3-point bending tests and 3D printing. Using 3D finite element models, the 1D submodeling approach is further validated in the final step, showing a strong correlation with experimental data for deflection calculations.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a literature review to understand the existing research on submodeling and its practical applications in finite element modeling. They selected a cantilever beam case as a test subject to demonstrate stress analysis and topology optimization through submodeling. They developed a 1D submodeling approach to streamline the optimization process and ensure result validity. The authors utilized beam formulations to optimize and validate the outcomes of the submodeling approach. They 3D-printed the optimized models and subjected them to a 3-point bending test to confirm the accuracy of the developed approach. They employed 3D finite element models for submodeling to validate the 1D approach, focusing on specific finite elements for deflection calculations and analyzed the results to demonstrate a strong correlation between the theoretical models and experimental data, showcasing the effectiveness of the submodeling methodology in achieving optimal solutions efficiently and accurately.

Findings

The findings of the paper are as follows: 1. The use of submodeling, specifically a 1D submodeling approach, proved to be effective in achieving optimal solutions more efficiently and accurately in finite element modeling. 2. The study conducted on a cantilever beam case demonstrated successful stress analysis and topology optimization through submodeling, resulting in optimized geometry for enhanced fatigue life. 3. Beam formulations were utilized to optimize and validate the outcomes of the submodeling approach, leading to the successful 3D printing and testing of the optimized models through a 3-point bending test. 4. Experimental results confirmed the accuracy and validity of the developed submodeling approach in streamlining the optimization process. 5. The use of 3D finite element models for submodeling further validated the 1D approach, with specific finite elements showing a strong correlation with experimental data in deflection calculations. Overall, the findings highlight the effectiveness of submodeling techniques in achieving optimal solutions and validating results in finite element modeling, stress analysis and optimization processes.

Originality/value

The originality and value of the paper lie in its innovative approach to utilizing submodeling techniques in finite element modeling for structural analysis and optimization. By focusing on the reduction of finite element models and the creation of smaller, more manageable models through submodeling, the paper offers designers a more efficient and accurate way to achieve optimal solutions for complex problems. The study's use of a cantilever beam case to demonstrate stress analysis and topology optimization showcases the practical applications of submodeling in real-world scenarios. The development of a 1D submodeling approach, along with the utilization of beam formulations and 3D printing for experimental validation, adds a novel dimension to the research. Furthermore, the paper's integration of 1D and 3D submodeling techniques for deflection calculations and validation highlights the thoroughness and rigor of the study. The strong correlation between the finite element models and experimental data underscores the reliability and accuracy of the developed approach. Overall, the originality and value of this paper lie in its comprehensive exploration of submodeling techniques, its practical applications in structural analysis and optimization and its successful validation through experimental testing.

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