Force Distribution Research Articles

Design and optimization analysis of pylon open lower corbel

This study, centered around the engineering context of the Wuxue Yangtze River Bridge, addresses the challenge of significant temperature-induced secondary internal forces in the short lower tower column. A novel open lower corbel tower scheme is proposed as a solution. Firstly, comprehensive finite element models are established for both the open lower corbel pylon scheme and the traditional lower continuous beam pylon scheme. These models are employed for finite element analysis to derive bending moments and displacements of the bridge pylon under various loads, including permanent, vehicle, temperature, and wind loads. Subsequently, considering internal force distribution and stiffness, a comparative assessment is made between the open lower corbel cable pylon scheme and the traditional lower continuous beam cable pylon scheme. The findings reveal that the open corbel structure bridge pylon exhibits lower transverse bending moment values under the influence of permanent load, vehicle load, temperature load, and wind load. This reduction is advantageous for mitigating the issue of significant temperature-induced secondary internal forces in the bridge pylon. Additionally, the transverse bridge stiffness of the open lower corbel cable pylon scheme is found to be on par with that of the lower continuous beam cable pylon scheme. Moreover, topology optimization of the original corbel design is accomplished using the relative density method. The computational results demonstrate that the corbel’s stress and deformation under vertical loads meet code requirements. These research findings offer valuable insights for the design and construction of similar projects.

Orthodontic maxillary molar movement-induced zygomatic pillar remodeling and its consequences on occlusal characteristics and stress distribution

ObjectiveWe aimed to evaluate changes in the zygomatic pillar during orthodontic treatment involving premolar extraction, analyze the effects of maxillary first molar movement on zygomatic pillar remodeling, and examine occlusal characteristics and stress distribution after remodeling.MethodsTwenty-five patients who underwent premolar extraction were included in the study. The zygomatic pillar measurement range was defined, and cross-sectional areas, surface landmark coordinates, alveolar and cortical bone thicknesses, and density changes were assessed using Mimics software based on the cone-beam computed tomography scans taken before (T0) and after the treatment (T1). Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to determine the correlation between changes in the zygomatic pillar and maxillary first molar three-dimensional (3D) movement and rotation. Additionally, the correlation between pillar remodeling and occlusal characteristics was analyzed by Teetester. Pre- and post-reconstruction 3D finite element models were constructed and loaded with an average occlusal force of two periods.ResultsThe morphological and structural remodeling of the zygomatic pillar after orthodontic treatment involving premolar extraction showed a decreased cross-sectional area of the lower segment of the zygomatic pillar. The zygomatic process point moved inward and backward, whereas the zygomatico-maxillary suture point moved backward. The thicknesses of the zygomatic pillar alveolar and cortical bones were thinner, and reduced alveolar bone density was observed. Simultaneously, the movement and angle change of the maxillary first molar could predict zygomatic pillar reconstruction to a certain extent. With decreasing the total occlusal force and the occlusal force of the first molar, occlusal force distribution was more uniform. With zygomatic pillar remodeling, occlusal stress distribution in the zygomatic alveolar ridge decreased, and occlusal stress was concentrated at the junction of the vertical and horizontal parts of the zygomatic bone and the posterior part of the zygomatic arch.ConclusionsOrthodontic treatment involving premolar extraction led to zygomatic pillar remodeling, making it more fragile than before and reducing the occlusal force of the maxillary first molar and the entire dentition with stress concentrated in weak areas.Clinical relevanceNo other study has focused on the effects of orthodontics on pillar structures. The present study indicates that the mesial movement of the maxillary first molar weakened the zygomatic pillar and reduced occlusal function, thereby providing insights for inserting anchorage screws and facial esthetics.

The Piston Slap Force Reconstruction of Diesel Engine Using WOA-VMD and Deconvolution.

In a diesel engine, piston slap commonly occurs concurrently with fuel combustion and serves as the main source of excitation. Although combustion pressure can be measured using sensors, determining the slap force is difficult without conducting tests. In this study, we propose a method to identify the slap force of the piston to solve this difficult problem. The traditional VMD algorithm easily receives noise interference, which affects the value of parameter combination [k, α] and thus affects the extraction accuracy of the algorithm. First, we obtain the transfer function between the incentive and vibration response through percussion tests. Secondly, a variational modal decomposition method based on whale algorithm optimization is used to separate the slap response from the surface acceleration of the block. Finally, we calculated the slap force using the deconvolution method. Deconvolution is a typical inverse problem of mathematics, often prone to ill-conditioning, and the singular value decomposition and regularization method is used to overcome this flaw and improve accuracy. The proposed method provides an important means to evaluate the angular distribution of the slap force, identify the shock positions on the piston liner, and determine the peak value of the waveform which helps us analyze the vibration characteristics of the piston and optimize the structural design of the engine.

Full-length strain and damage monitoring for carbon fiber reinforced polymer cable based on optical frequency domain reflectometry

Lightweight, high-strength, corrosion-resistant, and fatigue-resistant carbon fiber reinforced polymer composite (CFRP) cables for cable-stayed or suspension bridges have been considered an excellent alternative to traditional steel cables. In the present paper, optical frequency domain reflectometry (OFDR) technology was applied to realize self-monitoring of the full-length strain and damage of CFRP rod-cable. The full-length axial tensile strain distribution of a 35 m CFRP cable was verified with the tensile test. The strain accuracy was verified to be 1.61 %, with a spatial resolution of ≤ 10 mm and a strain precision of 3.92 με throughout the full-length strain distribution. In comparison to the actual cable force, the cable force distribution, which is based on partial self-monitoring CFRP rods, demonstrates a deviation of approximately 1.6 %. The rod fracture damages in the CFRP cable were identified using wavelet smoothing, resulting in a localization error of ≤ 0.645 m and a quantification error of less than 15 %. According to the present study, methods to determine the cable force distribution and fracture damage for a CFRP cable were proposed.

Intelligent towing and pushing system for unmanned tugboats under wind and wave disturbances

ABSTRACT Intelligent unmanned tugboats have the potential to significantly improve the efficiency of barge manipulation. This paper investigates the kinetic modelling, optimal force distribution, and cooperative control within the unmanned tugboat towing and pushing system. A practical kinetic model for the towing and pushing system has been developed, precisely taking into account factors like physical cable forces and disturbances caused by wind and waves in turbulent sea conditions. Following this, an optimal force allocation approach is investigated to allocate the desired force and determine the towing and pushing angles. Furthermore, a cooperative model predicted control strategy is proposed for the dual unmanned tugboats' towing and pushing systems. This strategy aims to ensure the barge quickly reaches its designated location, maintaining the desired heading and velocity. Simulation results indicate that unmanned tugboats can collaboratively tow and push the unpowered barge to the specified location with the desired heading and speed.

Numerical Simulation of Forming a 3D Shape by a Multi-Point Die

Multi-point forming (MPF) is considered one of the flexible and creative three-dimensional sheet metal forming processes. Such a technique replaces traditional rigid punches with a set of adjustable-height discrete pins. By altering the relative height of each pin, a variety of three-dimensional curved surfaces can be formed. In order to avoid changing the height of the pins manually, they are attached to springs. Hence, when a load applies at the pins holder, these will take the shape of the die due to the spring properties quickly and easily. However, wrinkles and dimples are inevitable issues that appear when using MPF. In order to investigate and minimize these defects, a finite element approach using ANSYS 15.0 software has been applied to perform numerical simulations for this MPF operation. Two cases have been examined in this study. Whilst the first one includes direct forming between the pins and the metal, a sheet of rubber has been added among them in the second case. The simulation has been conducted on brass (Cu Zn 65-35) with a thickness of (0.71 mm) and rubber with a thickness of (2 mm). The boundary conditions, which are attached to the blank, enable the motion in the y-direction only with respect to the lower profile at a depth of (30) mm, and was immobilized by constraints in the x and z direction. The study has shown remarkable results since the dimples were visible on the sheet surface in the first case, whereas these defects were significantly reduced during the second one. Moreover, the blank profile’s maximum stress and strain have been studied. Due to force distribution, rubber reduces maximum stress and strain to approximately 27% and 49%, respectively, in the second case

Seismic Response and Damage Analysis of Large Underground Frame Structures without Overburden

With the development of the Chinese economy and society, the height and density of urban buildings are increasing, and large underground transportation hubs have been constructed in many places to alleviate the pressure of transportation. Commercial buildings are usually developed above the large underground transportation hubs, so the underground structures may have very shallow depths or no soil cover. The seismic response and damage mechanisms of such underground structures still need to be studied. In this paper, an example of a project in China is taken as an object to analyze the seismic response and damage mechanism of the structure after simplification. The spatial distribution of deformations and internal forces of such structures and the location of the maximum internal forces are obtained, and the effect of the frequency of seismic motions on the structural response is obtained. Finally, an elastoplastic analysis of such structures is carried out to assess the damage location and the damage evolution process.

DEM simulation of effects of particle size distribution on meso-mechanical properties of slip zone soil

Particle Size Distribution (PSD) exerts a substantial influence on the mechanical properties of geological materials such as rocks and soils, which can be viewed at a microscale as an assembly of discrete particles. An exploration into the effects of particle gradation on the properties of these materials provides valuable insights into their nature. In the study, the Discrete Element Method (DEM) was used to conduct numerical shear tests on eight distinct groups of slip zone soil, each characterized by a different particle gradation. The aim was to examine the meso-mechanical properties and shear evolution laws of slip zone soil numerical samples with both optimal and sub-optimal PSDs. Findings underscore the pivotal role that PSD plays in various aspects, including dilatancy, the evolution of the displacement field, the network of contact force chains, the principal stress, and the distribution of normal and tangential contact forces within the slip zone soil. It was observed that the network of contact force chains in the numerical samples with an optimal PSD was more complex than in those samples with a sub-optimal PSD. Additionally, the distribution of principal stresses before and after shear was more uniformly balanced. This particle size-based study offers significant reference value for future investigations into the impact of PSD on the macroscopic and meso-mechanical properties of slip zone soil. By augmenting this knowledge, a more comprehensive understanding of the fundamental behavior of these materials can be attained, leading to improved prediction and management of geological risks.

Effect of crystal orientation on surface/subsurface damage characteristics of nano-cutting Ni-based single crystal superalloy

In ultra-precision machining, material anisotropy has an essential impact on surface generation and subsurface damage. In this work, the molecular dynamics method is applied to create the diamond nano-cutting models of Ni-based single crystal (NBSX) superalloy workpieces with different crystal orientations, and the surface/subsurface damage characteristics, crystal structure changes, cutting force, and atomic temperature and stress are discussed. The results show significant differences in surface/subsurface quality, crystal structure transformation, cutting force, atomic temperature and stress distributions and dislocation density obtained from nano-cutting workpieces along different crystal orientations. In four groups of workpieces, the surface/subsurface quality is used as an evaluation index, which shows that the [110](001) crystal orientation has the best cutting effect, and the [111](1‾ 10) crystal orientation is the worst cutting direction. This work reveals the damage generation mechanism of the machined surface/subsurface of NBSX superalloy on an atomic scale, which provides technical support for improving machining quality and optimizing machining parameters.

Effects of foot exercises and customized arch support insoles on foot posture, plantar force distribution, and balance in people with flexible flatfoot: A randomized controlled trial

BackgroundExercises strengthening foot muscles and customized arch support insoles are recommended for improving foot posture in flexible flatfoot. However, it is not known what the effects of exercises and insoles on plantar force distribution obtained during walking at different speeds. Also, randomized controlled trials comparing the effects of exercises and insoles are limited. Research questionWhat are the effects of foot exercises, customized arch support insoles, and exercises plus insoles on foot posture, plantar force distribution, and balance in people with flexible flatfoot? Do exercises, insoles, and exercises plus insoles affect outcome measures differently? MethodsForty-five people with flexible flatfoot were randomly divided into three groups and 40 of those completed the study. The exercise group performed tibialis posterior strengthening and short foot exercises three days a week for six weeks. The insole group used their customized arch support insoles for six weeks. The exercise plus insole group received both interventions for six weeks. The assessments were performed three times: before the interventions and at the 6th and 12th weeks. Outcome measures were (1) foot posture, (2) plantar force distribution in the following conditions: static standing, barefoot walking at different speeds, and walking immediately after the heel-rise test, and (3) balance. ResultsFoot posture improved in all groups, but insole was less effective than exercise and exercise plus insole (p<0.05). Plantar force variables obtained during standing and walking changed in all groups (p<0.05). The superiority of the interventions differed according to the plantar regions and walking speed conditions (p<0.05). Static balance improved in all groups, but limits of stability improved in the exercise plus insole and exercise groups (p<0.05). SignificanceThe superiority of the interventions differed according to the assessed parameter. The management of flexible flatfoot should be tailored based on the assessment results of each individual.

A novel physics-based modeling approach for tangential fretting contact behavior of jointed interface considering multi-scale effects

A novel physics-based constitutive model has been developed to map the tangential fretting behavior of joint surfaces. The model integrates the fractal normal contact model, which considers multi-scale effects, and the Iwan model through the Coulomb friction law. In this model, a new distribution of yield force is proposed for Jenkins elements, which is determined by fractal topography and material parameters and related to the scale of asperity. The effects of fractal topography, material parameters, and the normal load applied to the joint surface on the tangential responses such as tangential force, tangential stiffness, energy dissipation, and the distribution of yield force have been discussed. It has been found that the fractal parameters D and G have opposite effects on the tangential responses and yield force distribution.

Mechanical Interaction Between the Tendons of the Extrinsic Finger Flexors

ABSTRACTHumans possess an incredible capacity for dexterity, but independent finger control is limited. One factor constraining finger independence is the connections between the tendons of the extrinsic finger muscles. The aim of this study was to assess to what extent the linkages between the distal tendons of flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) and those of the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) constrain finger independence. Experiments on human fresh frozen cadaveric upper extremities (n = 6) were performed. First, one finger (target) was flexed whereas the other (nontarget) fingers were held in a nearly extended position. The change (Δ) in total flexion angle (∑Θ; i.e., the sum of angles of the different finger joints) of the target finger from the ∑Θ corresponding to the extended position at the start of the movement until the ∑Θ corresponding to the onset of force exertion at the nontarget fingers was assessed. Second, the distribution of force across the four fingers upon loading the tendon of the target finger was assessed for two finger positions (extended, 90° flexion of metacarpal phalangeal joint). For both muscles and for all fingers, the range of independent movement was small (&lt;7°). Δ∑Θ at force onset was lowest for fingers immediately adjacent to the target finger and highest for more distant fingers. For both muscles and for all fingers, some of the target finger force (&lt;14% for FDP, &lt;2% for FDS) was distributed to the nontarget fingers, which increased (up to 58%) only for FDP in response to target finger flexion. We conclude that mechanical connections between the FDP and FDS tendons constrain finger independence. Such constraints become apparent when moving one finger relative to the other fingers.

The Dynamics of the India‐Eurasia Collision: Faulted Viscous Continuum Models Constrained by High‐Resolution Sentinel‐1 InSAR and GNSS Velocities

AbstractThe distribution and magnitude of forces driving lithospheric deformation in the India‐Eurasia collision zone have been debated over many decades. Here we test a two‐dimensional (2‐D) Thin Viscous Shell approach that has been adapted to explicitly account for displacement on major faults and investigate the impact of lateral variations in depth‐averaged lithospheric strength. We present a suite of dynamic models to explain the key features from new high‐resolution Sentinel‐1 Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar as well as Global Navigation Satellite System velocities. Comparisons between calculated and geodetically observed velocity and strain rate fields indicate: (a) internal buoyancy forces from Gravitational Potential Energy acting on a relatively weak region of highest topography (&gt;2,000 m) contribute to dilatation of the high plateau and contraction on the margins; (b) a weak central Tibetan Plateau (∼1021 Pa s compared to far‐field depth‐averaged effective viscosity of at least 1022–1023 Pa s) is required to explain the observed long‐wavelength eastward velocity variation; (c) localized displacement on fault systems enables strain concentration and clockwise rotation around the Eastern Himalayan Syntaxis. We discuss the tectonic implications for rheology of the lithosphere, distribution of geodetic strain, and partitioning of active faulting and seismicity.

Study on the pulsation and fluid-structure coupling characteristics of rotating parts of vane type mixed-flow pump

Abstract Vane type mixed flow pumps (VTMFP) are widely used in water conservancy engineering, with a wide range of head applications. The impeller is the core component of the pump unit, and its internal flow and hydraulic excitation force affect the safe and stable operation of the unit. Aiming the pulsation characteristics inside the impeller, the VTMFP under different conditions is studied to examine the deformation and stress distribution by CFD, and the simulated results agree with the test data. The simulated results indicate that the impeller blade passing frequency consistently dominates the impeller inlet under various operating conditions. Furthermore, it is observed that the impeller rotating parts experience the highest levels of stress and deformation at low flow rate. The distribution of the equivalent force decreases from the hub to the shroud, while the deformation displacement decreases from the impeller shroud to the hub. In light of these findings, it is recommended that the design process takes into consideration the stress concentration near the blade root and the deformation at the blade edge.

‘Short Bars Crossed’ to Remodel the Entire Chest Wall in Children and Adolescents with Pectus Excavatum

BackgroundThe cross-bar technique of minimally invasive pectus excavatum (PE) correction remains underreported, which is especially true of pediatric patients. We therefore reviewed the experience of a Turkish and an Austrian center. An additional novelty characterizing both pediatric cohorts was the use of short bars. MethodsIn a retrospective study, pediatric PE corrections involving ‘short bars crossed’ were analyzed for complications and intra-/postoperative outcomes. Cases with two or three bars were included, given that a horizontal third bar was placed whenever considered useful for upper-chest elevation. All bars were fitted with a single stabilizer near the surgical entry point. In the Austrian center, intercostal nerve cryoablation was used for pain management. Descriptive statistics are presented. ResultsSeventy-eight patients ≤18 years old were evaluable at the Turkish (n = 56) and Austrian (n = 22) centers. Total median values were 16.2 (IQR: 15.1–17.4) years for age and 4.60 (IQR: 3.50–6.11) for Haller index. Ten mild or moderate complications (12.8%) were observed, including just one revision requirement due to bar migration (1.28%). Intercostal nerve cryoablation (n = 13) was associated with longer surgical procedures at 150 (IQR: 137–171) versus 80 (IQR: 60–100) minutes but with shorter hospital stays, given an IQR of 3–4 days versus 4–5 days. Conclusion‘Short bars crossed’—with a single stabilizer in a ventral position close to the surgical entry point—ensure a wide distribution of forces, protect against bar migration, are safe and effective, and offer stability at an age characterized by growth and physical activity. Level of EvidenceIV.

Assessing cutter-rock interaction during TBM tunnelling in granite: Large-scale standing rotary cutting tests and 3D DEM simulations

The widespread utilisation of tunnel boring machines (TBMs) in underground construction engineering requires a detailed investigation of the cutter-rock interaction. In this paper, we conduct a series of large-scale standing rotary cutting tests on granite in conjunction with high-fidelity numerical simulations based on a particle-type discrete element method (DEM) to explore the effects of key cutting parameters on the TBM cutter performance and the distribution of cutter-rock contact stresses. The assessment results of cutter performance obtained from the cutting tests and numerical simulations reveal similar dependencies on the key cutting parameters. More specifically, the normal and rolling forces exhibit a positive correlation with penetration but are slightly influenced by the cutting radius. In contrast, the side force decreases as the cutting radius increases. Additionally, the side force shows a positive relationship with the penetration for smaller cutting radii but tends to become negative as the cutting radius increases. The cutter's relative effectiveness in rock breaking is significantly impacted by the penetration but shows little dependency on the cutting radius. Consequently, an optimal penetration is identified, leading to a low boreability index and specific energy. A combined Hertz-Weibull function is developed to fit the cutter-rock contact stress distribution obtained in DEM simulations, whereby an improved CSM (Colorado School of Mines) model is proposed by replacing the original monotonic cutting force distribution with this combined Hertz-Weibull model. The proposed model outperforms the original CSM model as demonstrated by a comparison of the estimated cutting forces with those from the tests/simulations. The findings from this work that advance our understanding of TBM cutter performance have important implications for improving the efficiency and reliability of TBM tunnelling in granite.

Research on Radial Force of the Volute Pump with Stay Vanes at Medium-high Specific Speed

Abstract In this paper, to study unsteady hydraulic excitation characteristics of the impeller in stay vane volute pump, the radial force of that is investigated by vector analysis, time-frequency analysis and unsteady flow field analysis etc. Results show that the radial force distribution on the impeller has a linear relationship with the number of the blade under high flow conditions. Furthermore, the radial force has obvious directivity under low flow conditions. The radial force of the impeller is mainly distributed on the blade and the shroud. Interestingly, it is found that the radial force on the impeller is smaller than the radial force on the blade and shroud respectively, when there are cross peaks between the blade and the shroud. In addition, the results of the unsteady flow field analysis reveal that the radial force distribution of the impeller is unbalanced under low flow conditions. This result is due to the fact that jet wake forms at the impeller outlet and radial vortex leads to rotating stall in the flow channel. This work may provide some theoretical references for the optimal design and stable operation of the stay vane volute pump.

Influence of trailing edge radius of intake struts on excitation force and vibration of rotor blades

Adjusting the trailing edge radius of the intake struts may be advantageous in suppressing the vibration of compressor rotor blades. To explore the impact of the intake struts trailing edge radius on the excitation force and vibration, this study focuses on a compressor with intake struts, and fluid and vibration calculations were conducted. The study revealed that decreasing the trailing edge radius led to a reduction in separation near the strut’s trailing edge, resulting in a narrower wake and weakened mixing near the trailing edge. This caused the total pressure loss region induced by the wake to become more elongated in the low-frequency component, leading to a nonlinear decrease in total pressure amplitude with the reduction of the trailing edge radius. As the trailing edge radius decreased, the excitation force and vibration amplitude of the first-stage compressor rotor blades decreased, while the excitation force distribution showed little variation. The research findings provide insights for the design of intake struts.

Study on the electro-magneto-mechanical characteristics of CORC superconducting cable with striations

CORC superconducting cable is a compact and flexible composite superconductor. It is widely used in large power systems because of its good flexibility and high engineering current density. In these applications, reducing the AC loss generated by the superconductor is a key factor in studying the electromagnetic field of the superconducting conductor, which affects the operational stability of the entire superconducting power device. Currently, the use of striated tape-wound cables not only allows for flexible wiring at design time but also effectively reduces AC losses. This technology has been widely used in large superconducting magnet equipment. In this paper, the finite element model of single superconducting tape and CORC superconducting cable is established based on the finite element idea. The electromagnetic properties and mechanical changes are numerically calculated by H-method. The results show that both the current density and the magnetic field of a single superconducting tape show a gradual penetration from the two sides to the center. The area of maximum current density and magnetic field distribution is at the tape boundary. The distribution of current density, magnetic field and Lorentz force of three-dimensional CORC superconducting cable is similar. All of them are gradually attenuated from the maximum value at the boundary to the center position. It is worth noting that the current density, magnetic field and Lorentz force of the striated superconducting cables are smaller than the values without striations. The calculation results of the finite element model in this paper show that the striations weaken the current density, magnetic field and Lorentz force of the CORC superconducting cable by about 8.77%, 16.21% and 9.23%. Moreover, the presence of striations can effectively reduce the AC loss of superconductors.

Two-temperature modeling of lamellar cathode arc

A three-dimensional, two-temperature (2T) model of a lamellar cathode arc is constructed, drawing upon the conservation equations for mass, momentum, electron energy, and heavy particle energy, in addition to Maxwell’s equations. The model aims to elucidate how the physical properties of electrons and heavy particles affect heat transfer and fluid flow in a lamellar cathode arc. This is achieved by solving and comparing the fields of electron temperature, heavy particle temperature, fluid flow, current density, and Lorentz force distribution under varying welding currents. The results show that the guiding effect of the lamellar cathode on current density, the inertial drag effect of moving arc, and the attraction effect of Lorentz force at the lamellar cathode tip primarily govern the distribution of the arc’s physical fields. The guiding effect localizes the current density to the front end of the lamellar cathode, particularly where the discharge gap is minimal. Both the inertial drag effect and the attraction effect of Lorentz force direct arc flow toward its periphery. Under the influence of the aforementioned factors, the physical fields of the lamellar cathode arc undergo expansion and shift counter to the arc’s direction of motion. A reduction in welding current substantially weakens the guiding effect, causing the arc’s physical fields to deviate further in the direction opposite to the arc motion. In comparison with a cylindrical cathode arc, the physical fields of the lamellar cathode arc are markedly expanded, leading to a reduction in current density, electron temperature, heavy particle temperature, cathode jet flow velocity, and Lorentz force.