Influence Of Geometrical Parameters Research Articles

Simulation Approaches for the Study of the Oil Flow Rate Distribution in Lubricating Systems with Rotating Shafts

This study addresses the issue of predicting the distribution of lubricant flow through the outlets of a rotating shaft used in vehicle power transmission. A typical geometry with closely spaced rows of holes, suitable for the lubrication of multi-disk clutches, was considered. Both lumped parameter and computational fluid dynamics approaches were applied and compared. The test rig for model validation was designed with a variable speed shaft featuring an axial oil inlet and three equally spaced pairs of radial outlet holes. The main characteristic of the experimental facility is the possibility to selectively measure the flow rates through each outlet. It was found that the three-dimensional model based on the multiple reference frame approach provides a reliable prediction of how the flow rate is distributed. Generally, the flow rate is lower through the outlet closest to the inlet and is maximum at the farthest exit. The flow distribution is minimally affected by the shaft speed. The influence of geometric parameters on making the flow distribution more uniform was studied. It was found that a better flow balance is obtained with a low ratio between the diameter of the radial holes and that of the axial channel. The results obtained offer best-practice guidelines for accurately simulating comparable systems, in order to optimize reliability of the mechanical transmission and energy efficiency of the flow generation unit.

Hydraulic performance analysis of piano key weirs with curvilinear keys: a numerical and experimental study

ABSTRACT A significant number of dams worldwide are very old and thus require a reassessment of maximum flood discharges due to siltation and climate change effects. The Piano Key Weir (PKW) is a relatively new labyrinth-type weir that has emerged as a viable solution for dam rehabilitation and new projects with space constraints. While various studies have been conducted in the past to investigate the influence of geometrical parameters of PKW, there is a lack of information regarding the effect of non-linear slope profile of keys on the discharge efficiency. In this paper, ogee profiles have been introduced in the outlet keys to study their influence on the discharge coefficient. The experiments were performed at the Hydraulics Laboratory, IIT Roorkee, India, using a flume 15 m long, 0.39 m wide and 0.52 m deep. These experiments involved four PKW models with different slope profiles in the outlet key. The results of the laboratory studies and RANS model simulations indicate that the PKW models with ogee shaped outlet keys are more efficient than the linear shaped counterpart for heads higher than their design head. The maximum increase in discharge coefficient for the PKW models with curvilinear outlet keys was 9%.

Quasi-static and dynamic responses of gradient hexachiral auxetics: Experimental and numerical analysis

In the current paper, the mechanical responses of polymer gradient hexachiral auxetic metamaterials were experimentally and numerically investigated under quasi-static and intermediate strain rate loadings. Five gradient design strategies were explored, including uniform, positive, negative, center positive, and center negative gradients. The deformation/failure mechanism, Poisson's ratio, and energy absorption capability were experimentally analyzed, together with the effects of impact velocity and gradient distribution. Experimental results revealed that the gradient design can mitigate the shear deformation of hexachiral auxetics, which efficiently remain its negative Poisson's ratio effect under dynamic loading. Compare with the quasi-static loading, earlier failure of auxetics was observed under dynamic loads due to the strain rate and inertial effect, which diluted their negative Poisson's ratio effect and energy absorption capability. Among the designs, auxetics with negative gradient configurations showed the best energy absorption under dynamic loading. Numerical analysis further supported the experimental findings and provided insights into the influence of geometric parameters. It shows that thicker configurations and non-uniform node gradient series with coefficients of 1.15 (positive, center positive) and 0.87 (negative, center negative) provided optimal energy absorption under the dynamic loading. This work offers profound insights into enhanced performance mechanisms and provides avenues for optimizing structural design of auxetic metamaterials.

Data-driven multi-objective optimization of aerodynamics and aeroacoustics in dual Savonius wind turbines using large eddy simulation and machine learning

Savonius rotor is a popular form of vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT) for small-scale and urban applications because of its straightforward design and self-starting ability. Dual VAWTs present challenges in terms of wake interactions and noise, particularly in urban areas. Optimizing these parameters is essential for future wind energy adoption. This research is the first to analyze how the interaction of wakes from adjacent rotors, combined with a deflector, affects both the aerodynamic performance and noise levels of dual Savonius rotors. Large Eddy Simulation is applied, as it effectively captures detailed turbulent wind flows and their interactions with wind turbines. A multi-objective optimization method combining Machine Learning and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is developed to optimize rotors for maximum power efficiency and minimum noise, considering their wake interactions with a unique deflector system. First, the influence of geometric parameters on aerodynamics and aeroacoustics characteristics of rotors is analyzed, and the database is generated using Design of Experiment approach. Next, the CFD model is replaced by Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model established for predicting rotor performances. A Multi-Objective Genetic Algorithm method is used to optimize aerodynamics and aeroacoustics characteristics of rotors. Finally, optimal design parameters are identified from the Pareto front using the technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution decision-making method. The ANN model demonstrated high accuracy with an RANN2 of 0.995 and 0.971 for the average power coefficient (CP) and overall sound pressure level (OSPL) predictions, respectively. Multi-objective optimization revealed the best configuration of the deflector with bleed jets, improving the average CP up to 57.5% and reducing OSPL to an almost 5.2% compared to the dual rotor case at TSR = 0.8.

Modeling Heat and Mass Transfer in a Wet Terracotta Tube Channel for Evaporative Cooling Application: Influence of Geometrical Parameters

This study investigates the influence of design parameters on the performance of a terracotta tube-type evaporative cooling system. A mathematical model was developed based on double film theory and energy and mass conservation equations of the humid air and the wet tube wall in a one-dimensional geometry by applying correlations for heat and mass transfer coefficients and air psychometric properties. A system of non-linear differential equations was established and analytically integrated to obtain the relationship between the operating and the geometrical parameters of the system. Various geometrical parameters were simulated to assess their effects on outlet air temperature, cooling capacity, and wet-bulb effectiveness. The results indicate that increasing the tube equivalent diameter results in higher outlet temperatures and cooling capacity but decreases wet-bulb effectiveness. Conversely, an increased flatness ratio significantly enhances cooling performance and wet-bulb effectiveness due to a larger surface area for heat exchange. Additionally, longer tubes correlate with lower outlet temperatures and higher cooling capacity, indicating improved cooling performance. These findings emphasize the importance of selecting appropriate tube dimensions to optimize cooling efficiency in evaporative cooling systems. By balancing hydraulic diameter, flatness ratio, and tube length, engineers can design compact and effective cooling solutions suitable for various applications, ultimately contributing to energy-efficient and sustainable cooling technologies. The modeling approach developed in this study can also be applied to address challenges in geothermal energy extraction, drying of porous solids, food processing and storage, building thermal insulation, nuclear reactor cooling, and seawater desalination.

Broadband frequency vibration isolation in pipelines using BCC meta-lattice sandwich sleeves

Pipeline structures usually suffer from serious vibration problems due to pressure pulsation and fluid excitation, potentially compromising their structural stability and service life. In this paper, a lightweight body center cubic (BCC) meta-lattice sandwich sleeve is proposed to isolate vibrations in pipelines within a broadband frequency range. The vibration isolation is based on the concepts of the locally resonant metamaterials. An equivalent mass-spring model is conducted to theoretically predict frequency range and elucidate the generation mechanism of the band gap. In addition, an analytical methodology is also proposed to predict the equivalent stiffness of the BCC meta-lattice sleeves. The influence of geometric parameters and configuration layout of the meta-lattice on the flexural wave band gap is further investigated. Numerical studies and experimental tests are also conducted to validate the vibration isolation effectiveness, considering various pipe lengths and different numbers of meta-lattice units. The proposed design provides fundamental support for the design of lightweight vibration isolation structure for pipelines.

Study on stable configurations and snap through of the rectangular VS bi-stable laminates with curvilinear fiber alignment

With advances in fiber placement technology, variable stiffness bistable laminates (VSBL) composited by curvilinear fiber format become a subject of intense interest for morphing structures due to their lower weight, adjustable stiffness and a richer range of stable configurations compared to straight fiber bistable laminate. Merely conducting research on square laminates is not enough allowing for practical application scenarios. This article investigates the influence of geometrical parameters of VSBL on the stable state configuration and static snap through actuated by MFC systematically. A quadratic variable curvature polynomial is used to fit the transverse displacement according to classical laminate theory. By means of von-Karman geometrical relationship and the Rayleigh-Ritz method, stable configurations of the VS bistable laminate are solved. By comparing with finite element results, the reliability and precision of the current results are verified. It shows that changing fiber orientation leads to significant effects on the steady state configuration and critical bifurcation points. Theoretical analysis of VS bistable laminates containing the smart piezoelectric material MFC is followed by analytical modeling. The voltage threshold required for actuating snap through of two stable states is acquired by smart material layer MFC. The specific reasons for the differences in the configurations of VS bistable laminates are illustrated by analyzing distribution of the stiffness of VSBL in the plane.

Numerical study of the porous cavity with different square size vanes with a high focus on Nusselt number

This study extensively analyzes various regular and irregular vanes in pipe porous cavities on natural convection, thermal entropy generation, stream function, and temperature distribution in fluid and solid phases. The finite element method (FEM) is employed to study stream function, temperature distribution in the fluid phase and solid phase, and various γ for Nuf, ave and Nus, ave in SR, TR, SIR, and TIR. In the present study, a significant contribution of this research is the investigation into the effects of regular versus irregular vanes in the context of enclosures formed by pipe porous cavities that the SIR specimen has the most influence on stream function and thermal effect in the fluid phase and solid phase that aims to enhance system performance and optimize energy efficiency. In addition, the significant influence of geometrical parameters constitutes many heated obstacles in the middle of SIR, various heated vanes in the left of SIR, and employed Ra and ε in the analysis of Nuf, ave and Nus, ave in SIR are carried out to investigate the percentage discrepancies obtained, notably 89.35 % and 89.72 %, respectively. In validation, the calculation in results was adapted accurately to the finite element method's stream function, the temperature distribution in the fluid phase and solid phase, and various γ for Nuf, ave and Nus, ave which means that the percentage differences in obtaining results reached under 1 %. Numerical results revealed that the Hartman number has a significant influence in Shtf, ave, Shts, ave, Tyave, Nuf, ave and Nus, ave in TR, SR, TIR, and SIR.

Analysis and Optimization of the Stray Capacitance of Rogowski Coils

In this work, the lumped model of Rogowski coils is briefly reviewed to illustrate that the reduction in stray capacitance expands the bandwidth and improves the high-frequency performance. Then, a network model as well as explicit formulas for the stray capacitance of Rogowski coils are established, and the influence of geometrical parameters of the skeletons on the stray capacitance is investigated. It is found that the stray capacitance of Rogowski coils is approximately proportional to the perimeter of the skeleton cross-section. Based on the above discussion, optimization of the shape of the skeleton cross-section, aiming at minimizing the perimeter without affecting the magnetic flux and mutual inductance of the coils, is carried out. The widely adopted circular and rectangular cross-sections are discussed first. Then, the cross-section of an arbitrary smooth and convex shape is optimized by solving a constrained variational problem, leading to an explicit equation for the optimal skeleton cross-section of Rogowski coils. Numerical results demonstrate that, compared with the common circular and rectangular skeleton cross-sections, the proposed optimal cross-section exhibits the shortest perimeter and thus the highest upper cutoff frequency under fixed magnetic flux. The optimization method developed by this work can provide a theoretical basis and guidance for the design of Rogowski coils.

Anti-progressive collapse performance and design method of novel T-stub connections

To address the insufficient anti-collapse capacity of T-stub connections due to premature failure, this study proposes a novel T-stub connection (NTC) by adding four V-shaped laminated plates. Monotonic loading tests are conducted on the T-stub web and V-shaped laminated plate to analyze the influence of geometric parameters on their deformation and load-bearing capacity. The working mechanism of NTC is investigated through the validated numerical models by analyzing the failure mode, impact force history, deformation pattern, internal force development, and energy dissipation. The research results indicate that, compared to the T-stub connection, the NTC exhibits two-phase failure characteristics, which begin with the fracture of the bolt-hole in the T-stub web, followed by the gradual straightening and eventual fracture of the V-shaped laminated plates. NTC undergoes three stages under impact loads: peak, oscillation, and platform stages. The addition of V-shaped laminated plates enhances the ductility of NTC by 93 %−130 % and its energy dissipation capacity by 189 %−235 %. This significant enhancement in deformation and energy dissipation capabilities can be attributed to the addition of the V-shaped laminated plates. The deformation and bearing capacity calculation formulas for both the T-stub web and V-shaped laminated plate are provided. Additionally, a design method for NTC is proposed based on theoretical analysis, and its rationality is verified through numerical examples involving three different sets of beam and column sections.

Heat transfer characteristics of vertical condensers under unsteady boundary conditions: Dynamic modeling, experiment validation, and parametric analysis

A dynamic model has been developed to predict the coupled heat transfer characteristics of vertical condensers under varying boundary conditions. The model predictions closely matched the experimental data, with normalized mean bias error and root mean square error metrics below 3%. It was observed that variations in the inlet temperature of the secondary-side coolant did not immediately affect the outlet coolant temperature, exhibiting a noticeable lag phase before gradually adjusting to new conditions. Even after the inlet coolant stabilized, the outlet coolant temperature continued to rise until reaching a steady state after a defined period. The dynamic changes in the condensate film thickness and local heat flux density were categorized into three stages: lag, transitional, and steady. These stages showed differing response and transition times across various locations of the condenser. The bottom of the condenser pipeline demonstrated the shortest response time for condensate film thickness variation but the longest transition time. Additionally, the study investigated the influence of geometric parameters on the dynamic response characteristics of condensers. It was found that longer condenser tubes, lower wall thermal diffusivity, and thicker condensing walls resulted in extended transition times for condensate mass flow at the condenser bottom.

Design of the Elastic Modulus of porous lattice structures composed of cells with continuously variable cross section carrying structures

BackgroundPorous bone implants have a wide range of applications for their low elastic modulus and good connectivity. It is necessary to explore an elastic modulus control method that can significantly regulate the elastic modulus under the condition of maintaining a constant porosity. MethodsFor achieving continuously changing elastic modulus of porous lattice structure, the simple cubic lattice structures were selected as research object, and the distribution of cross-sectional sizes of its carrying structures were set as variable continuous curves. The prediction model for the elastic modulus was established based on the elasticity mechanics and the equal mass assumption. Then, the prediction model is enhanced through compression simulation of the unit cell structure. Finally, the accuracy of prediction model is validated by compression experiments. FindingsThe results indicate that the distribution of cross-sectional size of the carrying structures has a significant impact on the elastic modulus of unit cell structures under the constraint of equal mass. By adjusting the characteristic parameters of distribution curves, the elastic modulus can be changed within a large range. InterpretationVariable cross-section can effectively change the elastic modulus of porous structures while ensuring constant porosity. This method has important value in decoupling the influence of geometric parameters on the elastic modulus of porous structures.

Bandgap Tuning Based on Multi-Stable Metamaterial with Multi-Step Deformation

Mechanical metamaterials are highly versatile structures capable of achieving unconventional mechanical properties. Of particular interest are mechanical metamaterials with the ability to tune bandgaps, offering potential applications in vibration control tailored to specific requirements. In this study, a new type of metamaterial is introduced to exhibit a distinctive two-step deformation mode under compressive displacement. Through a combination of numerical simulation and experimental verification, the band structure and vibration characteristics of the novel metamaterial in different stable states are thoroughly examined under compressive displacement. The results demonstrate that, in comparison to the initial structure, the novel mechanical metamaterial effectively addresses the issue of a significant reduction in plateau stress relative to buckling stress following buckling in the second deformation stage. The novel structure showcases notable controllable deformation capabilities, yielding distinct band structures in various stable states, and facilitating bandgap tuning. Furthermore, the study explores the influence of geometrical parameters and stable state transitions on bandgap evolution, supported by frequency response analyses and experimental validation. This research offers a fresh perspective on the utilization of Multistable Multi-Step Deformation Metamaterial (MMDM) for energy absorption and vibration damping applications.

4D printing bio-inspired chiral metamaterials for flexible sensors

Chiral metamaterials were a typical metamaterial configuration, which had broad application prospects in vibration isolation, energy absorption and other fields. Although 4D-printed chiral metamaterials have been investigated by introducing stimulus-responsive materials to achieve programmable properties of metamaterials, chiral metamaterials are mostly fabricated by single materials, which limits the adjustable domains of the mechanical properties and the design freedom of metamaterials. In this work, inspired by the configuration of collagen fibers of biological tissues, the bio-inspired chiral metamaterials with wave ligaments were developed. The bi-phase (TPE@PLA-SMP) composite chiral metamaterials were fabricated by combining active phase (shape memory polylactic acid, PLA-SMP) with passive phase (thermoplastic elastomer, TPE). The influences of geometric parameters, ligament gradient forms, and TPE distribution modes on the mechanical properties of the developed metamaterials were characterized. When the TPE was distributed at 0° and 45°, the deformation of the mechanical metamaterials occurred mainly in the TPE cells, resulting in the J-shaped displacement-force curve. The programmable and reconfigurable properties of the metamaterials (including configuration, and energy absorption performance) under thermal stimulation were demonstrated. The specific energy absorption (SEA) of the metamaterial 2θ = π/2 was realized to transform between 0.92 kJ/kg and 0.38 kJ/kg by shape memory programming. Flexible sensors based on TPE@PLA-SMP composite metamaterials were developed by filling CNC-CNT@PVA composite hydrogels (minimum resistivity 8.1 Ω m), which enabled stable output of electrical signals under repeated loads. A motion state monitor was developed and realized to monitor the wearer's movement such as running, demonstrating its potential application prospects in fields such as flexible electronics.

Influence of the dimple cross-sectional profile on the behavior of gas parallel slider bearings

This paper studies the effect of the dimple cross-sectional profile on the behavior of gas parallel slider bearings using the numerical method. The numerical method is performed in MATLAB software. The influence of geometrical parameters of dimples on the dimensionless average pressure is studied for different dimple cross-sectional profiles. The geometrical parameters of dimples include dimple depth, dimple area density, transversal textured ratio, and longitudinal textured ratio. It is found that the hydrodynamic lubrication of dimple-textured gas parallel slider bearings is controlled by the dimple depth, dimple area density, transversal textured ratio, longitudinal textured ratio, and dimple cross-sectional profile. Furthermore, the impact of sliding speed on the hydrodynamic lubrication is studied for different dimple cross-sectional profiles. The results indicate that the optimum sliding speed for maximizing the hydrodynamic pressure is controlled by the dimple cross-sectional profile.

Dispersion Analysis of Plane Wave Propagation in Lattice-Based Mechanical Metamaterial for Vibration Suppression

Phononic crystals based on lattice structures provide important wave dispersion characteristics as band structures, showing excellent compatibility with additive manufacturing. Although the lattice structures have shown the potential for vibration suppression, a design guideline to control the frequency range of the bandgap has not been well established. This paper studies the dispersion characteristics of plane wave propagation in lattice-based mechanical metamaterials to realize effective vibration suppression for potential aerospace applications. Triangular and hexagonal periodic lattice structures are mainly studied in this paper. The influence of different geometric parameters on the bandgap characteristics is investigated. A finite element approach with Floquet–Bloch’s principles is implemented to effectively evaluate the dispersion characteristics of waves in lattice structures, which is validated numerically and experimentally with a 3D-printed lattice plate. Based on numerical studies with the developed analysis framework, the influences of the geometric parameters of lattice plate structures on dispersion characteristics can mainly be categorized into three patterns: change in specific branches related to in-plane or out-of-plane vibrations, upward/downward shift in frequency range, and drastic change in dispersion characteristics. The results obtained from the study provide insight into the design of band structures to realize vibration suppression at specific frequencies for engineering applications.

Insights into thermomechanical behavior and design parameters of alumina calciner refractory lining

This study investigated the thermomechanical behavior of an alumina calciner’s lining, a critical component in alumina processing, often susceptible to maintenance issues arising from refractory failure due to erosion and cracking. Based on numerical analyses via the finite element method, the design of a refractory panel was modeled. Furthermore, the influence of geometric parameters and friction level between lining layers on the thermal and mechanical behavior of the system was evaluated. Key findings highlighted how the curvature changed the stress profiles, resulting in particular cracking patterns, where curved panels showed higher stress concentrations at the center of their edges. Empirical validation through in-situ crack pattern observations further validated the model’s predictive capability. Additionally, the study evaluated the influence of friction coefficients on resulting stresses, showing their small effect relative to other factors. Analyses on design parameters indicated that stress levels generally increased with the size-to-thickness ratio, highlighting the trade-off between reducing installation time and ensuring structural integrity in panel design and application. An alternative for enhancing lining performance was explored by selecting the material, where decreasing the insulating thermal conductivity reduced the likelihood of failure of the castable layer. Ultimately, the computational numerical method developed in this study offers a robust framework for exploring various geometries and materials, providing engineers with a versatile tool for optimizing lining designs in various operational scenarios.

Geometry optimization of wall-jet collection device: A study of flow-field dynamics and particle motion

Wall-jet collection has been recognized as an advanced technique for mining polymetallic nodules that has significant potential for practical engineering applications. Optimizing the geometry of the collection device can improve collection efficiency and reduce environmental disturbance. In this study, 24 distinct structures of nodule-collection device were investigated using a computational fluid dynamics–discrete element method, which was validated by comparing with the experimental data. A key parameter, the wall-jet half-width coefficient Cc, was employed to examine the collection performance, including the collection efficiency, collection flow field, and particle trajectory. An assessment indicator derived from energy-consumption and substrate-disturbance metrics was proposed, and this allowed the identification of optimal device structures tailored to various requirements. The results showed that based on collection efficiency–jet flow rate (η–q) response curves, the collection performance can be categorized into two distinct patterns. When Cc ≤ 1.56, induced flow will occur, and η can reach 1.0; when Cc > 1.56, a moving vortex that disturbs the particle trajectories is generated, and the jet escapes rightward, resulting in a decrease in η. The influences of geometric parameters on Cc exhibit coupled relationships, which is particularly noticeable in the relationship between the tangential angle of the jet and its thickness. The optimal device geometry varies for different criteria, and maximum reductions in substrate disturbance and jet energy consumption of 48.46% and 19.64%, respectively, were obtained with different optimization criteria. This study is expected to provide data to support the optimization of the structure of wall-jet collection devices.

Fractal theory-based contact analysis of surface microtextured involute spline coupling

Accurate estimation of the contact stress of the aviation involute spline coupling is the basis of accurate estimation of its wear. In view of this, in this work, a fractal contact coefficient for involute spline coupling with surface texture based on the gear fractal contact model and M-B fractal contact model was established. Then, the relationship between fractal dimension and actual contact area, as well as the relationship between actual contact area and load were derived. And also, a fractal contact model for involute spline coupling with surface texture was established. Finally, the influence of geometric parameter on the contact coefficient and fractal contact model was analyzed. The results indicate that: the fractal dimension (D), roughness amplitude parameter (G), and material property parameter (ϕ) have important effects on the fractal contact model of involute spline coupling on the tooth surface; There must be an appropriate fractal dimension (D) value that makes the contact state optimal; As the roughness amplitude parameter (G) value increases, the surface contact condition deteriorates and the surface contact strength decreases. Conversely, as the material property parameter (ϕ) value increases, the surface contact condition improves and the surface contact strength increases. It is a preliminary exploration for accurately calculating the contact stress of involute spline coupling, laying a solid theoretical foundation for accurately predicting the wear of involute spline coupling with surface texture.

A kirigami-based reconfigurable metasurface for selective electromagnetic transmission modulation

Tunable three-dimensional (3D) electromagnetic metasurfaces are essential for achieving selective modulation of polarized waves, but they usually require complex designs and the use of smart materials, posing great implementation challenges. Here, we propose a novel kirigami-based reconfigurable electromagnetic metasurface, which consists of a kirigami-based deformable thin polyimide substrate and periodically arranged copper split-ring resonators. By simple stretch, the two-dimensional (2D) planar metasurface can be uniformly transformed into a 3D state, enabling it to effectively and selectively modulate linearly and circularly polarized waves. Experimental and numerical results reveal the mechanical deformation and transmission characteristics of the metasurface under applied strains. It is shown that the metasurface exhibits good selective transmission tunability while the resonant frequency remains basically unchanged for both transverse electric and transverse magnetic polarized waves. Furthermore, the selective tuning mechanism and the influence of geometrical parameters are also illustrated by the equivalent circuit analysis.