Critical Design Parameters Research Articles

Seismic performance upgrade of highway bridges using a novel hybrid placement of bonded and unbonded laminated rubber bearings

To enhance the seismic performance of highway bridges supported by laminated rubber bearings, this study proposes a novel hybrid placement of bonded and unbonded bearings. The typical analytical models of the hybrid bearing system are obtained and its critical design parameters are identified through theoretical analysis. A design procedure is then established to rapidly determine the design parameters for the hybrid bearing system according to specified design objectives. Nonlinear time history analyses are conducted to demonstrate the impact of the hybrid bearing system on the seismic responses of bridges. The analytical results indicate that the hybrid bearing system, when designed using the proposed procedure, can achieve the desired hysteretic behavior. The hybrid system combines the benefits of both bonded and unbonded bearings, effectively controlling maximum and residual bearing displacements without significantly increasing the seismic demand on bridge piers. The design parameters for the hybrid bearing system should be determined by carefully balancing the responses between the bearings and the piers.

Exploratory neutronic evaluation on the enhancement of tritium breeding and energy multiplication capability using (Th,U)O2 in a solid-state tritium breeding blanket of a fusion demonstration reactor

The achievable tritium breeding ratio (TBR) in Korean fusion demonstration reactor (K-DEMO) that utilizing the deuterium-tritium nuclear fusion reaction for energy production is the critical design parameter for the self-sufficiency of tritium. However, the calculation uncertainty of the achievable TBR makes it difficult to fully understand the tritium fuel cycle in the K-DEMO. Moreover, if the achievable TBR is less than the required TBR, the calculation uncertainty of the achievable TBR makes the design limitation on the self-sufficient tritium supply of the K-DEMO. Therefore, making the achievable TBR larger than the required TBR is the most important goal of the K-DEMO design for the self-sufficient tritium supply. To create an achievable TBR with a margin greater than the required TBR, the modified neutron-multiplying material that is different from the typical neutron-multiplying material (9Be) is tested in this study. The blending of the fissionable (232Th) and fissile (233U) material with 9Be is attempted to enhance the neutron multiplication reaction resulting in a gradual increase of the achievable TBR according to the increase of the atomic faction of fissile material. With the addition of fissile material, it is found that energy multiplication accompanied by fission reaction is dramatic. The possibility of the self-breeding of 233U from 232Th is also justified. However, the neutronic damages resulting in the frequent replacement of the components in the tritium breeding blanket and generation of the high-level waste also occurred as the negative impact accompanied by the blending of 232Th and 233U with 9Be.

Tailoring Work Functions of Heterostructures by Varying the Depth of a Buried Monolayer

AbstractThe work function is a critical parameter for device design and understanding of materials properties, but contemporary experimental literature on tailored work functions is rather scarce. This paper presents a promising new approach to work function design that uses pulsed laser deposition (PLD) growth with unit cell precision. It is shown that a monolayer buried within a material can influence the work function as a function of the layer depth. This method can preserve properties of the original material's surface, and furthermore, a sensitive material can be used as the monolayer, both of which are beneficial for device design. Proof of concept is demonstrated by inserting a nominal monolayer of barium oxide (BaO) into strontium titanate (SrTiO3) (001) at different depths, revealing a previously unknown work function trend. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations, surface characterization, and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) studies verify the quality of the heterostructures and help to understand how charge transfer, slight barium diffusion, and termination effects account for the observed work function trends. This work function tunability is a promising approach for future devices that require a tailored work function, which can easily be extended to a wider variety of materials.

Multiscale analysis of the compressive behaviour of polymer-based composites reinforced by hybrid Al2O3/Al fibres

Metal fibre reinforcements to polymer matrix composites (PMCs) bolster architectural flexibility and functionality affordably but feature a relatively weak interfacial bonding if not surface treated. This work demonstrates that Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation is promising to prepare woven hybrid Al2O3/Al reinforcements for PMCs. The compressive behaviour (a critical design parameter in structural design) of PMCs reinforced by ∼9–13 vol% γ-Al2O3/Al fibres with different oxide-to-metal ratios (∼20–50 vol%) is evaluated. The majority of fibres with the oxide ratio of 20 % failed in micro-buckling mode at interlacing points. Compared to Al reinforcements, the hybrid Al2O3/Al fibres increased the specific compressive strength (σc/ρ) and modulus (Ec/ρ) of the composite by ∼15 % and ∼58 %, respectively. Oxide shells thicker than 15–20 μm limited further enhancement due to fibre failure by shear-induced rupture. Thinner shells on Al reinforcements are recommended for PMCs used to manufacture structural components in mechanical engineering applications.

Correlation Study of Commercial Street Morphology and Pedestrian Activity in Cold Region Summers under Thermal Comfort Guidance: A Case Study of Sanlitun, Beijing

Pedestrian vitality in commercial streets is influenced by various factors, among which the spatial form of the street and the resulting thermal environment have a significant impact. This study, from the perspective of thermal comfort, combines thermal comfort simulation with pedestrian simulation to establish an optimization model based on pedestrian vitality. The model aims to analyze and quantify the impact of street spatial form on thermal comfort and pedestrian vitality, providing a comprehensive evaluation of optimization schemes for commercial street spaces. Firstly, the study identifies the levels of spatial design parameters for commercial streets and generates optimized design scenarios for commercial street spaces. Using the simulation platforms Rhino 7 Grasshopper and MATLAB R2023a, a pedestrian simulation model guided by thermal comfort is constructed and validated against empirical data. Next, the influence of commercial street spatial design parameters on store visitations is assessed, identifying the most critical design parameters. Finally, design strategies for commercial streets are proposed based on vitality-oriented layouts. The results indicate that the spatial form of the street significantly affects store visitations, with the street width-to-height ratio being the most influential factor, followed by street orientation and interface form. NW-SE-oriented streets show a 47.2% higher Total Store Visitations (TSV) value compared to E-W-oriented streets, while E-W streets exhibit a Differential Store Visitation (DSV) value 4.47 times that of NW-SE streets. Streets with a W/H ratio of 0.25 have a 54.9% higher Total Store Visitations value than those with a W/H ratio of 0.9, and streets with a W/H ratio of 0.65 exhibit a Differential Store Visitations value 1.21 times that of streets with a W/H ratio of 0.25. Considering overall street vitality, the study recommends NW-SE- and NE-SW-oriented streets, with a width-to-height ratio between 0.25 and 0.4. The study also proposes strategies for the modification and expansion of streets in different orientations, providing the scientific basis and optimization recommendations for the planning and renovation of commercial streets in cold regions during summer.

On the design of low modulus Ti–Nb–Au alloys for biomedical applications

Developing new low modulus structures is important for reducing the risk of aseptic loosening during loading of implant materials. However, an alloy that may also confer some advantage at preventing septic loosening could dramatically improve the outcomes for patients. Nevertheless, the predictive power of current models remains limited to common alloying additions. As such, this study considers the mechanical properties of a range of Ti–Nb–Au superelastic alloys to elucidate the composition range for which low modulus structures can be achieved. These modulus values are compared to other critical design parameters such as strain recovery and strength. It was found that Au additions are effective at suppressing the formation of the ω phase and allow alloys with lower moduli to be achieved. It was also shown that low β phase stability is critical for achieving the lowest modulus, and that this susceptibility to transform to a martensite may enable higher strengths to be achieved. However, this low β phase stability also limits the strain recovery that may be achieved meaning these two properties are not necessarily independently tuneable. These data provide important context for the design of new systems containing unusual alloying additions such as Au.

A dual‐mode integration framework and application to agile feedback design of launch vehicles

AbstractIn recent decades, the design of complex systems like launch vehicles in the aerospace industry has presented engineers with challenges that go beyond system complexity. Issues such as time‐to‐market pressures and intricate industrial processes have underscored the increasing significance of agile design methodologies. Agile design is derived from the simplification of the design process and enhancing cross‐domain data transmission and feedback. While methods based on model‐based system engineering have improved iteration times in system architecture design, challenges persist in cross‐domain data transmission. Due to the diversity of complex system models and data, a single‐mode integration method is difficult to realize the data link construction of all tools used. To address this challenge, this paper proposes a dual‐mode data integration framework with expansibility, universality, and cost‐efficiency which leverages the benefits of Remote Procedure Call and Intermediate Exchange Module, addressing the challenge of constructing cross‐domain data links under single‐mode integration. In this study, two critical requirements of the first‐ and second‐stage separation systems, namely, weight and minimum separation gap, are selected for data feedback. A Modelica‐based multiphysics simulation model is developed in MWorks; visualization and computation of the minimum gap are carried out in CoppeliaSim. To bridge the gap between domain‐specific tools, Matlab and Functional Mock‐up Unit modules are introduced as middleware, facilitating data feedback linkage. The entire simulation process is orchestrated using activity diagrams in the MagicDraw tool. The study delves into the influence of critical design parameters, such as the initial angular velocity of separation and the thrust of the retro rocket, on the minimum separation gap. It provides an analysis of minimum separation gap variations under uncertain operating conditions and examines design margins. Significantly, the paper highlights the significance of controlling the initial angular velocity during separation and the reliability of the retro rocket, providing essential decision supports and valuable insights to agile the process of system design.

Multiphysics modeling and optimization of an innovative shape memory alloy-polymer active composite

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are a unique class of smart materials capable of recovering significant deformations through temperature variations, making them attractive for adaptive structures and morphing applications. However, integrating SMAs into polymer composites poses significant challenges, such as interfacial delamination and matrix overheating during thermal activation, in addition predicting the stress acting on the SMA during the actuation is pivotal. Addressing these issues is crucial for realizing the full potential of SMA-based active composites in aerospace, automotive, and renewable energy sectors. This study presents a novel multi-material design strategy for SMA-polymer active composites, featuring a rigid PC/ABS layer for mechanical integrity, a soft high-temperature silicone coating for encapsulating SMA wires, and aluminum terminals for wire crimping. A comprehensive multiphysics FEM model was developed to accurately capture the coupled thermo-mechanical response. Extensive experimental characterization and validation were conducted, followed by systematic parametric studies to investigate the effects of critical design parameters on key performance metrics. The developed prototype exhibited remarkable shape morphing capabilities, with a maximum tip deflection of 68 mm (deflection-to-length ratio of 0.4). Excellent agreement between experiments and simulations was achieved, with a maximum error of 1.7 % in tip deflection, validating the accuracy of the multiphysics model. Parametric analyses quantified the trade-offs between geometric parameters, revealing their influence on activation temperature, deflection, SMA wire stress, and fatigue life. Optimal configurations enabling low activation temperatures (<150 °C), low stress levels (<400 MPa), and high predicted fatigue life (>50,000 cycles) were identified. The multi-material design approach effectively addressed common issues in SMA-polymer composites, enabling reliable actuation cycles without damage accumulation. The validated multiphysics model and parametric insights provide a comprehensive framework for optimizing the design and performance of SMA-polymer active composites, paving the way for their widespread adoption in shape morphing applications. Potential implications include the development of adaptive aerodynamic surfaces, deployable structures, and energy-efficient systems across various industries.

Effects of CuCr1Zr contamination on the tensile properties and microstructure of stainless steel 316L produced via laser powder bed fusion

AbstractCopper contamination has a negative effect on the tensile properties of certain stainless steel grades due to a weakening of grain boundaries via liquid metal embrittlement. This is especially problematic given current trends in laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) that elevate contamination risks, such as multi-material processing or the use of recycled materials. As such, it is critical to establish composition limits for use in standard specifications. This study investigates the changes in tensile properties and cracking behavior in stainless steel alloy 316L contaminated with copper alloy CuCr1Zr at concentrations of 0–10 particle percent (pt.%) in horizontal, diagonal, and vertical build orientations. It is found that microcracks are already present at 1 pt.% Cu alloy and increase in density with contamination. The cracks are generally vertically oriented along columnar grain boundaries and are associated with high local Cu content, thus exacerbating the anisotropy of the as-built material. The contamination decreases the elastic modulus, yield strength (YS), ultimate tensile strength (UTS), and uniform elongation, eventually transitioning from ductile to brittle fracture modes. The build orientation relative to the tensile loading axis is shown to be a critical design parameter due to the preferential crack initiation and growth direction. The fracture surfaces at 10 pt.% contamination show regularly spaced, smooth brick-like cleavage patterns that correspond to the columnar grain dimensions. Even so, the measured YS and UTS exceeded the ASTM F3184-16 standard for CuCr1Zr contaminations up to 5 pt.%. As a conservative limit, it is proposed that a maximum content of 1 wt% Cu be specified for L-PBF SS316L.

Explainable artificial intelligence framework for FRP composites design

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) materials are integral to various industries, from automotive and aerospace to infrastructure and construction. While FRP composite design guidelines have been established, the process of obtaining the desired strength of an FRP composite demands considerable time and resources. Despite recent advancements in Machine Learning (ML) models which are commonly used as predictive models, the inherent 'black box' nature of those models poses challenges in understanding the relationship between input design parameters and output strength of the composite. Moreover, these models do not provide tools to facilitate the designing process of the composite. The current study introduces an explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) framework that will provide understanding for the input–output relationships of the model through SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) and Partial Dependence Plots (PDPs). In addition, the framework provides for the first time a designing approach for adjusting the important design parameters to obtain the desired composite strength by the designer through utilizing an explainability technique called Counterfactual (CF). The framework is evaluated through the design of a 14-ply composite, successfully identifying critical design parameters, and specifying necessary adjustments to meet strength requirements.

Theoretical modeling and experimental investigation of in-phase resonant MEMS mirrors with cascaded structures

This paper proposes an efficient nonlinear one-dimensional (1D) compact mass-damper-spring model to predict the dynamic response of electrostatic resonant micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) mirrors with cascaded structures. The time-dependent damping moment due to viscous shear and pressure drag is computed using semi-empirical analytical equations for comb-drive structures and device frames. Nonlinear electrostatic force induced by the comb drives is efficiently acquired based on the hybrid method. The optimized device is fabricated using MEMS fabrication processes based on a 4-inch silicon-on-insulator wafer. The proposed compact model with the measured key parameters from the fabricated device shows excellent capability to accurately predict nonlinear dynamic responses of the fabricated device, including parametric excitation and hysteretic frequency response, with an average error of less than 5%. In particular, our 1D model is three orders of magnitude faster than the conventional finite element method model (0.8 s versus 1 h), enabling efficient system-level optimization of the critical design parameters. Based on the parametric study, electrode gap distance and torsion spring width are found to be two critical design parameters and dimensional analysis is conducted for design optimization with scan angle enhancing from 16.8° to 24° compared with the first design.

Frequency lock-in control and mitigation of nonlinear vortex-induced vibrations of an airfoil structure using a conserved-mass linear vibration absorber

We investigate the effectiveness of a vibration absorber on the vortex-induced vibration response of turbine blades during the frequency lock-in phase. A reduced-order model of a turbine blade and van der Pol oscillator is used to represent the fluid–blade interaction caused by the vortex shedding. A spring-mass-damper system is considered to model the vibration absorber. The advantage of the vibration absorber is demonstrated by simulating the nonlinear coupled four-degree-of-freedom aeroelastic system for the different sets of system parameters. We observe the dominance of a nonlinear vibration absorber over the linear vibration absorber only for the higher coupling parameter values. The analytical solution of the nonlinear coupled system is obtained through the method of multiple scales for the case of 1:1 internal resonance to identify the critical design parameters of the vibration absorber. We observe the high sensitivity of the system's frequency response to the distance of the vibration absorber from the elastic axis, along with the absorber's damping, stiffness, and mass. Finally, we perform a parametric analysis on the lock-in of the stability region to better understand the effect of the vibration absorber on the instability region.

Experimental study on the interface characteristics of geogrid-reinforced gravelly soil based on pull-out tests

The factors influencing geogrid–soil interface characteristics are critical design parameters in some geotechnical designs. This study describes pull-out tests performed on gravelly soils commonly encountered in the Xinjiang region and reinforced with two types of geogrids. The factors affecting the geogrid–gravelly soil interface properties are investigated with different experimental loading methods (pull-out velocity, normal stress), geogrid types, and soil particle size distributions and water contents. The ultimate pull-out force increases with the normal stress and pull-out velocity. Furthermore, with increasing coarse particle content and water content, the ultimate pull-out force increases and then decreases sharply. Based on these research results, this paper provides reasonable parameters and recommendations for the design and pull-out testing of reinforced soil in engineering structures. In reinforced soil structure design, the grid depth should be increased appropriately, and the coarse particle content of the overlying soil should be between 30 and 40%. During construction, the gravelly soil should be compacted to the maximum compaction at the optimal water content, and the structure should have a reasonable waterproofing system. According to the calculation results of the interface strength parameters, the uniaxial geogrid–gravelly soil interface has a high cohesive force csg, which should not be ignored in reinforced soil structure design.

Bayesian uncertainty quantification of modal parameters and RRF identification of transmission towers with limited measured vibration data

The resonant response factor (RRF) sensitive to modal parameters, including the damping ratio and frequency, is a critical parameter for wind-resistant design of extra high voltage (EHV) transmission towers, because it directly affects the calculation of the wind vibration coefficient. However, the research on operational modal analysis (OMA) of in-service EHV transmission towers is limited due to the high risk of field monitoring. Therefore, it is critical to determine the size of sufficient data samples or minimum monitoring duration for the OMA of a transmission tower. In this study, an investigation of uncertainty quantification in Bayesian OMA of EHV transmission towers with small data samples from the ambient dynamic test is carried out. The uncertainty of the resonant component factor for wind-resistance design is proposed and quantified, which could provide engineering designers with a reference for confidence levels. Firstly, a field test system is installed on a multipurpose EHV transmission tower with a closed-loop cat head and a pair of cross-arms, to gather the acceleration responses. Then, the OMA for the transmission tower is carried out by the fast Bayesian FFT (FBFFT) method to determine the modal parameters as well as the associated posterior uncertainty. The small sample analysis of OMA for the transmission tower is further performed to obtain sufficient data samples and minimum monitoring duration. Finally, the distribution of the RRF is presented with the different confidential levels. It is found that a sampling length of 600 s could fulfill the basic needs of accuracy in Bayesian OMA and the determination of RRF. The outcomes of this study may provide a reference for the wind-resistance design parameter selection of the similar type of transmission towers.

Development of novel two-level SMA-based self-centring steel columns for seismic resilience

This paper presents an innovative two-level shape memory alloy (SMA)-based self-centring (SC) steel column, referred to as TSSSC. The TSSSC is interconnected by two series of SMA bolts, differing in diameters and lengths, to achieve multi-yielding. This is intended to fulfil multiple performance-based design objectives and augment the structural ductility of SMA elements. Utilizing the distinctive material property of phase transformation inherent in SMA, the two-level bolts can accomplish multi-level yielding in a straightforward yet effective manner. This is achieved by employing SMA elements of varying diameters in series and sequentially activating them via the material's inherent stiffness hardening. The behaviours of the TSSSC are meticulously analysed through refined finite element models (FEMs), which are corroborated by previous test results. The TSSSC demonstrates commendable multi-yielding behaviour and SC capacity during cyclic behaviour studies. In comparison to conventional SMA-based SC structures, the TSSSC exhibits markedly superior ductility, exceeding 10, whereas traditional structures typically range between 4 and 6. This enhanced ductility ensures that the TSSSC can comprehensively meet the multiple design objectives stipulated in the current performance-based seismic design. The SC and energy dissipation (ED) capacity of the TSSSC can be activated during frequent seismic events, thereby providing a safety buffer for severe earthquakes due to seismic uncertainty. Furthermore, parametric studies are conducted to identify critical design parameters, including the vertical design load, prestress in SMA bolts, and the linear stiffness ratio between the short and long bolts of the two-level SMA bolts. Design recommendations are subsequently proposed based on the findings of these parametric studies.

Effect of suction temperature on the internal flow characteristics of hydrogen circulation pump

This paper explores the effects of suction temperature (ST) on the internal flow and pressure pulsation characteristics of a roots hydrogen circulation pump (HCP). The study analyzes the suction and discharge chamber pressure pulsation, as well as the inlet and outlet flow pulsation, at different STs. The research finds that an increase in ST leads to a decrease in the amplitude and fluctuation intensity of the pressure pulsation in both suction and discharge chambers. Moreover, the average flow rate of the HCP decreases with increasing ST, while the frequency and waveform remain unchanged. The maximum and minimum values of the inlet flow pulsation decrease, while the maximum value of the outlet flow pulsation decreases, and the minimum value increases, indicating a reduction in fluctuation intensity. The turbulent energy within the discharge and transport chambers also changes with increasing ST. The inter-lobe leakage flow (ILF) is slightly affected by ST, while the radial leakage flow (RLF) and axial leakage flow (ALF) exhibit slight increases. Overall, these findings reveal the importance of considering ST as a critical design parameter for optimizing the performance and stability of the HCP.

Determining rock crack stress thresholds using ultrasonic through-transmission measurements

The crack initiation stress threshold is widely used in excavation industries as rock spalling strength when designing deep underground structures to avoid unwanted brittle failures. While various strain-based methods have been developed for the estimation of this critical design parameter, such methods are destructive and often requires subjective interpretations of the stress–strain curves, particularly in rocks with pre-existing microcracks or high porosity. This study explore the applicability of non-destructive ultrasonic through-transmission methods for determining rock damage levels by assessing the changes in transmitted signal characteristics during loading. The change in velocity, amplitude, dominant frequency, and root-mean-square voltage are investigated with four different rock types including marble, sandstone, granite, and basalt under various stress levels. Results suggest the rate of signal variations can be reliably used to estimate crack closure and crack initiation stress levels across the tested rocks before failure. Comparison of the results between the conventional techniques and the new proposed methods based on ultrasonic monitoring are further discussed.

Exploring the sustainability of serpentine flow-field fuel cell, straight channel PEM fuel cells hight temperature through numerical analysis

This study focuses on investigating the performance dynamics of high-temperature Proton Exchange Membrane fuel cells, with an emphasis on critical design parameters. Utilizing a comprehensive mathematical model, the research explores concentration profiles, current density profiles, and polarization curves within a three-dimensional, isothermal, steady-state PEM fuel cell.The model incorporates the intricate processes of gas transport in anode and cathode channels, diffusion in catalyst layers, and the transport of water and hydronium ions in both the polymer electrolyte and catalyst layers. Additionally, it accounts for electrical current transport in the solid phase. Simulations conducted with Comsol Multiphysics 6.1 demonstrate a robust alignment between model results and experimental polarization data obtained at 180 °C. Optimal conditions for performance are outlined, specifying an inlet hydrogen gas velocity of 0.12 m/s and an inlet air velocity of 1.2 m/s, with consideration for a proton conductivity of 9.825 S/m.In a parallel investigation, numerical analysis assesses the sustainability of Serpentine Flow-Field PEM fuel cells, using critical parameters. The model applied in this research considers gas, water, and electrical current transport across various layers of the fuel cell, with a crucial focus on optimizing the membrane electrode assembly's design. The finite element method and ANSYS Fluent are employed for model solution.This study contributes significantly to the understanding of HT-PEM fuel cell dynamics, providing insights into the interdependencies of design parameters and their impact on system performance. The study emphasizes the pivotal roles of air and hydrogen inlet velocities in shaping fuel cell performance, elucidating the intricate dynamics dictating reactant distributions within diverse cell components.

Coupled models for designing and predicting performance of active sonar systems

Active sonar systems used to survey and image the seafloor typically transmit a pulse on a projector, receive echoes on an array of hydrophones, and condition and digitize the signals using on-board electronics. The quality of the data produced by these sensors is a function of the transducers, the electronics, and the environment. Simultaneous modeling of all these factors is necessary for accurate prediction of the system performance. Data products from these systems are often uncalibrated because absolute calibration is not required for their applications. However, modeling active sonar systems in their natural units within each domain provides clear benefits such as allowing system limitations to be accurately identified early during the design phase and easing validation of system performance in comparison with experimental data. This presentation will discuss the use of coupled multi-domain models in the design of two active sonar systems: the Sediment Volume Search Sonar and a multibeam echosounder architecture based on sigma-delta conversion. By coupling electro-mechanical transducer models and electrical hardware models with the Point-based Sonar Signal Model (PoSSM), it was possible to identify critical design parameters and sensitivities in the design of these sensors.

Design and simulation of a nano biosensor based on amorphous indium gallium zinc oxide (a-IGZO) thin film transistor

In this study, a biosensor utilizing a dielectric-modulated amorphous indium gallium zinc oxide (a-IGZO) thin film transistor (TFT) is introduced. TFT biosensors have garnered significant attention due to their heightened sensitivity, scalable nature, low power consumption, rapid electrical detection capabilities, and cost-effective means of mass production. By embedding a nano-cavity within the gate insulator of the TFT, biomolecules can accumulate within. As each biomolecule possesses its own dielectric constant, it modulates the effective gate capacitance and, subsequently, changes the channel conductance. To assess the sensitivity of the biosensor, variation in saturation current after the absorption of biomolecules with respect to the drain current in the case of an air-filled cavity has been considered as a precise measure. The efficient operation of a biosensor is contingent upon the sensitivity being highly dependent on the dielectric constant of the biomolecules that are accumulated within the nano-cavity. Consequently, a comprehensive evaluation has been conducted to ascertain the impact of critical design parameters which have the potential to affect the sensitivity of the biosensor. Additionally, a statistical analysis based on coefficient of variation measure has been performed to evaluate the susceptibility of the biosensor’s sensitivity to variations in geometrical and physical design parameters. The utilization of label-free detection methodology in this device presents a notable advantage due to its compatibility with the fundamental CMOS processing technology and its cost-effective potential for macro production.