Transient Loading Research Articles

Efficient structural optimization under transient impact loads using multilayer perceptron and genetic algorithms

Currently, there is a lack of structural optimization methods when a structure is suffering transient impact load, considering nonlinear factors such as material plasticity and strain rate effect. The utilization of derivative-free algorithms also increases computational expenses. Accordingly, this paper presents a novel structure transient optimization approach based on multilayer perceptron combined with a derivative-free optimization method, which can efficiently solve the transient structure dynamics optimization problem with multiple optimization objects. In this approach, the area to be optimized is cut by several closed B-spline curves whose shapes are controlled by several parameters and can be varied and merged at each optimization iteration step. The structure's transient analysis process is replaced by a machine learning based surrogate model, which is trained by thousands of results from the FEM explicit transient simulation. Additionally, nearly orthogonal Latin hypercube sampling is utilized to simplify parameter dimensionality, reduce the training data set, save calculation time, and give the training data set a more comprehensive range of design parameters. In our optimization process, our design target is to minimize the peak reaction force while with the constrain of ensuring enough stiffness and mass. The results demonstrate our proposed methods could efficiently handle transient optimization problems without sensitivity calculations, exhibiting strong generalization capabilities.

High-Speed Three-Dimensional-Digital Image Correlation and Schlieren Imaging Integrated With Shock Tube Loading for Investigating Dynamic Response of Human Tympanic Membrane Exposed to Blasts.

Investigating the dynamic response of human tympanic membranes (TMs) exposed to blasts requires full-field-of-view and three-dimensional (3D) methodologies. Our paper introduces a system that combines high-speed 3D digital image correlation (HS 3D-DIC) and Schlieren imaging (HS-SI) with a custom-designed shock tube for generating blast waves. This integrated system allows us to measure TM surface motions under intense transient loading, capturing full-field-of-view shape deformations exceeding 100 μm with a temporal resolution of 10 μs. System characterization encompasses (i) measuring the shock tube's output levels and repeatability, (ii) assessment of the spatial and temporal resolutions of the imaging techniques, and (iii) identification of overall system limitations. Optimizing these factors is crucial for improving the reliability of our system to ensure the accurate measurement of deformations. To assess our shock tube's reliability in generating repeated blast waves, we instrumented it with high-pressure (HP) and high-frequency (HF) pressure sensors along the blast wave pathway to record overpressure waveforms and compared them with Schlieren imaging visualized blast waves. We validate our HS 3D-DIC measured deformations by comparing them with deformations measured using single-point laser Doppler vibrometry (LDV), establishing a comprehensive assessment of the TM's dynamic response and potential fracture mechanics under blast. Finally, we test our approach with 3D-printed TM-like samples and a real cadaveric human TM. This methodology lays the groundwork for further investigations of blast-related auditory damage and the invention of more effective protective and medical solutions.

Dynamic response characteristics of proton exchange membrane fuel cell during transient loading: An experiment study

The dynamic performance of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) is crucial for safe and efficient operation and remains a major barrier to commercialization. In this paper the dynamic response characteristics of PEMFC under serpentine flow field (SFF) and parallel flow field (PFF) are discussed. The effects of current loading, operating pressures, anode and cathode stoichiometric ratios, as well as operating temperatures on the dynamic response characteristics of PEMFC are systematically studied through experimental methods. Furthermore, the principle and mitigation strategies for voltage undershoot are investigated. It shows that lower current density, higher back pressure and higher temperature are benefit to alleviate voltage undershoot. Compared with the SFF, the Second-stage time delay of PFF is shortened by 9.2 s, the VU is decreased by 17.27 mV, and the energy loss is reduced by 0.71%. Moreover, Pearson correlation coefficient is proposed to evaluate the correlation between index and PEMFC performance.

Enhanced elastic stress solutions for junctions in various pipe bends under internal pressure and combined loading ([formula omitted] pipe bend, U-bend, double-bend pipe)

Piping systems in nuclear power plants normally operate under high pressure and high temperature. To efficiently manage space within these systems, pipe bends are extensively used. However, the welded joints connecting these pipes may be susceptible to flaws due to weld residual stress, transient loads, and operating environments. When flaws are present in such areas, analytical evaluation of flaws is to be carried out based on fracture mechanics parameters such as stress intensity factor. To calculate the stress intensity factor, distributions of the elastic stress are required. Therefore, this paper presents closed-form approximations of elastic stress in the junction between a pipe bend and a straight pipe under internal pressure. Review of the existing elastic stress solutions for estimating the stresses in pipe bends was carried out analyzing their limitations. Based on those limitations elastic stress solutions for thick to thin wall pipe bends were proposed and were validated against finite element (FE) analysis for thick-wall to thin-wall pipe bends under internal pressure and combined loading (i.e. internal pressure, in-plane bending, out-of-plane bending inflicted simultaneously). 90° pipe bend, U-bend and double-bend pipe configurations were considered and showed good agreement with the FE results exhibiting less than 5.8 % discrepancies. The accuracy of the elastic stress solutions for pipe bends provided in the existing code are summarized and validated in the appendix as well.

Influence of Transient Static and Transient Dynamic Analysis on Deflection of Bridge Slab Using Finite Element Method in ANSYS

The deflection behavior of bridge slabs is critical for ensuring structural safety and longevity. By using the Finite Element Method (FEM) in ANSYS, engineers can simulate and analyze the effects of both transient static and transient dynamic loads on bridge slabs. This paper explores how these two types of analyses affect the deflection behavior of a bridge slab. We present the mathematical formulations, practical applications, and a case study involving a bridge slab subjected to time-varying loads. The comparative results demonstrate the significant impact that the choice of analysis method has on predicting deflection and ultimately guiding structural design decisions.

Fracture studies on cruciform bend specimens of pressure vessel steel subjected to thermo-mechanical loading

The safety of a nuclear power plant during incidents, such as a Loss of Coolant Accident (LOCA), heavily relies on conducting a comprehensive structural integrity assessment of both the Reactor Pressure Vessel (RPV) and its components, specifically to withstand Pressurized Thermal Shock (PTS). PTS is characterized by a combination of steep temperature gradient, resulting from the injected emergency coolant during a LOCA, and internal pressure within the RPV. Majority of the reported fracture assessment studies on RPV steel, whether experimental or numerical investigations, have predominantly focused on standard uniaxial specimens at iso-thermal loading conditions. To better simulate the thermal shock scenario in RPVs, the present work aims to assess the impact of a biaxial stress field on both fracture parameters (crack mouth opening displacement and J-integral) and plastic collapse load. This assessment is conducted through experimental and numerical investigations, both with and without prior transient thermal load. Fracture experiments are performed on cruciform bend specimens, featuring two different biaxiality ratios (1:1 and 2:1). Moreover, numerical studies on cruciform specimens are conducted using finite element analysis to validate and corroborate the observations derived from the fracture experiments.

Performance Assessment of Wood-Based Composite Materials Subjected to High Temperatures

This paper is based on research placed within the broader framework of the growing environmental impact requirements of building materials. Given this context, wood-based composite materials have emerged as a promising and innovative solution for structural elements. The current work aims to define a system for testing the mechanical behavior of glued laminated timber elements when exposed to high temperatures, in the neighborhood of the pyrolytic decomposition of materials. These tests monitor the transient behavior of the composite material and characterize the parameters involved in the thermo-mechanical analysis of elements constructed using this type of engineered wood product. The tests are used for the calibration of the material models involved in the numerical analysis and for the analysis of potential prototypes, considering the transient thermal load and heat propagation through the materials. By taking such tests, benchmark models and laboratory procedures are defined that can be used in the future to evaluate different materials, existing or new, and material combinations used to construct such a composite.

Design of modified complementary terminal sliding mode controller for wind turbine at region II using a two-mass model

Mechanical loads impact the life span of a wind turbine; therefore, the reduction of transient loads in the drive train has gained more emphasis during the design of the controller for power extraction. The trade-off between power extraction and load reduction on the drive train has become a critical concern for wind turbines. Existing control approaches improve energy extraction and impose a more significant transient load on the drive train. Therefore, to address the above issue, a modified complementary terminal sliding mode controller is proposed in this study for wind turbines at below-rated wind speeds. The performance of both the proposed and existing controllers has been tested with a 600 kW FAST simulator. Moreover, each controller has been examined using different wind spectral models, such as Kaimal, Von Karman, Smooth-Terrain, and NWTCUP. The turbulent intensities of these models varied from 5% to 25%, and average wind speeds ranged from 7 m/s to 8.5 m/s. A dSPACE 1202 board was used to test the efficacy of the proposed controller in real-time. This analysis indicates that the proposed controller reduces the transient load by 11.98% and the control input by 9.57% compared to the complementary terminal sliding mode controller. Additionally, the proposed controller improves the energy capture by 1.18%. Finally, this analysis shows that the proposed approach can enhance overall performance and capture maximum power at below-rated wind speeds compared to existing control schemes.

Multi-task Gaussian Processes based transient aerodynamic load reconstruction for maglev vehicle using acceleration response

The accurate estimation of aerodynamic loads is crucial for developing high-speed maglev trains, which can reach speeds of up to 600 km/h. Traditionally, this estimation has been achieved through computational aerodynamic simulation or direct pressure measurement. In this paper, we propose a novel framework for reconstructing transient aerodynamic loads on maglev vehicles using on-board acceleration measurements. In the framework, an inverse mathematical model that correlates the measured acceleration and external aerodynamic loads is derived from a well-calibrated maglev vehicle model. To avoid the ill-posed problem when solving the inverse mathematical model, a multi-task Gaussian Processes method is proposed, in which all reconstructed transient aerodynamic loads are treated as Gaussian Processes and the closed-form posterior distributions of these aerodynamic loads could be calculated. To validate the proposed framework, a set of transient vibration data collected from an operational maglev train passing through a double-track tunnel is utilized for load reconstruction. The results demonstrate that the framework offers a cost-effective and efficient means to obtain aerodynamic loads, highlighting its practical relevance for aerodynamic field testing in the context of evolving high-speed maglev technologies.

Designing tungsten armoured plasma facing components to pulsed heat loads in magnetic fusion machines

A possible design rule for preventing surface damage from thermal transients to solid tungsten armour is proposed and formulated for the plasma facing components (divertor, first wall) of magnetic fusion machines. The rule is based on combined results from laboratory experiments and operating fusion machines, and fundamental engineering principles such as the heat flux factor (FHF) and fatigue usage fraction (FUF). As an example, the rule would allow 2.104 transient heat loads cycles at a FHF of 10MJm-2s-½ before the lifetime is considered exhausted. The formulation of the rule using engineering principles allows combining loads of different magnitudes and various number of cycles. A practical example of the rule usage is provided, illustrating loads combination and how the rule may contribute to the component geometrical design. The proposed rule is only valid for surface loading conditions, hence is not usable for volumetric loading conditions such as runaway electrons. Setting a budget lifetime and a design rule does not preclude actual plasma operation beyond the design lifetime. It is actually normal that experimental devices explore a larger domain than the one defined at the time of the design.

Repair of heat load damaged plasma–facing material using the wire-based laser metal deposition process

Due to its unique properties tungsten is a promising candidate as plasma-facing-material (PFM) in future nuclear fusion reactors. Tungsten features an exceptionally high melting point, high thermal conductivity, low tritium inventory and comparatively low erosion rate under plasma loading [1]. But given the extreme loads on the PFM during operation of a fusion reactor, the lifetime of plasma-facing components (PFC)s is limited. Currently, it is planned to replace damaged PFCs when they reach the end of their service life. However, the lifetime of PFCs could be increased by in situ repair using additive manufacturing technology (AM) in the form of direct-energy-deposition (DED). The wire–based laser metal deposition process (LMD-w) meets several necessary conditions for operation in the vessel and could be used for performing such in situ repairs.It was investigated if the LMD-w process is able to heal thermal induced surface cracks and roughening by remelting the substrate during deposition of tungsten. For this purpose, tungsten samples of 12 × 12 × 5mm3, which later served as substrate plates for the LMD-w experiments, were treated with combined steady-state and transient thermal loads in the electron beam facility JUDITH 2. These samples were brazed to a copper cooling structure and exposed to 105 thermal shocks of 0.5 ms duration and an intensity of Labs = 0.55 GW m−2 (FHF = 12 MW s0,5 m−2) at a base temperature of Tbase = 700 °C. This way, edge localized mode (ELM) like thermal load damage was induced on the tungsten samples. On these samples, different LMD-w and laser remelting process strategies were performed. Subsequently, these samples were analyzed, and it was examined that the healing of the pre-damaged substrate material was successful. In parallel, the laser remelting process was modeled in a thermal transient finite element method(FEM) simulation in order to gain an insight into the temperatures prevailing in the material during the process.

Three-dimensional analysis of multiple inclined borehole heat exchangers

This research develops and applies a numerical modelling method for inclined borehole heat exchangers (BHE) in ground-source heat pump systems. Inclined BHEs have the advantage of reducing the ground-level footprint of the overall BHE field. Computational modelling of the ground heat transfer using the commercial code COMSOL Multiphysics has revealed that inclined BHEs offer additional performance benefits compared to vertical BHE fields. When heat is injected constantly, both types of fields perform similarly at first, but over a longer period of time, the inclined BHE fields show significant benefits due to the increased ground volume in the deeper portion of the field. Similar conclusions are reached when transient loading conditions are considered. Notably, when cooling dominates, inclined BHE fields outperform vertical ones for a simulated period of 10 years. This indicates that inclined BHE fields are better equipped to handle imbalanced energy loads. To summarize, inclined BHE fields offer advantages in ground-volume utilization and resilience to energy load imbalances compared to vertical fields.

Impact of repetitive ELM transients on ITER divertor tungsten monoblock top surfaces

Abstract Owing to the high stored energy of ITER plasmas, the heat pulses due to uncontrolled Type I edge localized modes (ELMs) can be sufficient to melt the top surface of several poloidal rows of tungsten monoblocks in the divertor strike point regions. Coupled with the melt motion associated with tungsten in the strong tokamak magnetic fields, the resulting surface damage after even a comparatively small number of such repetitive transients may have a significant impact on long-term stationary power handling capability. The permissible numbers set important boundaries on operation and on the performance required from the plasma control system. Modelling is carried out with the recently updated MEMENTO melt dynamics code, which is tailored to tackle melt motion problems characterized by a vast spatio-temporal scale separation. The crucial role of coupling between surface deformation and shallow angle heat loading in aggravating melt damage is highlighted. As a consequence, the allowable operational space in terms of ELM-induced transient heat loads is history-dependent and once deformation has occurred, weaker heat loads, incapable of melting a pristine surface, can further extend the damage.

Diagnosis of DC-DC Converter Semiconductor Faults Based on the Second-Order Derivative of the Converter Input Current

The deployment of DC microgrids presents an excellent opportunity to enhance energy efficiency in buildings. Among other components, DC-DC converters play a crucial role in ensuring the interface between the microgrid and its energy generation, storage, and consumption components. However, the reliability of these energy conversion solutions remains somewhat limited. Adopting strategies for accurate monitoring and diagnostics of the DC-DC converter topologies that best suit each equipment’s constraints is, therefore, of critical relevance. Solutions available in the literature concerning fault diagnostics on DC-DC converters do not consider the application of such converters in the household and tertiary sector environments and associated constraints—cost effectiveness, robustness against parameter uncertainty of the converter model, and obviation of the need for historical data. On this basis, this paper presents a simple and effective fault diagnostic strategy, based on a time-domain analysis of the second-order derivative of the converter input current. Its implementation is straightforward and can be integrated into the pre-installed converter control unit. The unique features of the fault diagnostic algorithm show good results for a broad range of operating points, along with insensitivity against load transients and supply voltage fluctuations.

Comparison of Ingestion of Different Size Hard and Soft Bodies Into a Representative Fan Assembly Model

Abstract Foreign matter ingestion into a jet engine is a significant hazard to the safety of aircraft. While soft body ingestions (i.e., bird or ice ingestions) have been extensively researched, the threat posed by uncrewed aircraft systems (UASs) is a more recent concern due to their recent rise in popularity and has not been thoroughly studied. To better understand the damage caused by UAS ingestions, it is crucial to examine the resulting ingestion damage in comparison to birds of similar mass. This analysis is an essential initial step in determining how previous knowledge regarding soft body ingestions can relate to this new threat. To properly analyze these ingestions, development of a model that accurately represents a fan assembly is essential. This model should include a fan, as well as representative boundary conditions for the ingestion, such as blade retention systems, nose cone, casing, and shaft. Items that are analyzed during the ingestion include the overall damage to the fan blades, average and peak forces imparted on the retention systems, impact loads with the casing, and transient loads due to impact on the shaft. The foreign object models used were experimentally validated at their nominal sizes to increase confidence in the results. Comparison of the effects of ingestion of UAS and birds of difference mass into the representative fan model are presented and discussed to gain a better understanding of the differences between soft and hard body ingestion.

Design of topology-optimized functionally graded porous structures under transient loads

This paper presents a novel approach for designing functionally graded porous structures (FGPSs) at a macroscopic scale, where the main goal is to maximize their stiffness when subjected to time varying loads. Topology optimization is used to achieve the complex task of designing the size, shape, and distribution of pores in porous structures. We employ a local volume constraint that smoothly varies in space, leading to the formation of a graded structure consisting of varying sizes and shapes of solid and empty regions. Further constraints, such as global volume and static compliance, are incorporated into the optimization framework to improve the results. The modified solid isotropic material with penalization (SIMP) model is applied to interpolate the material properties. The design variables are filtered, and the projection technique is employed to obtain black-and-white topologies. The method of moving asymptotes (MMA) solves the optimization problem, which is a gradient-based algorithm. Sensitivities are computed using the adjoint variable method (AVM) within the discretize-then-differentiate strategy. The linear elastodynamic problem resulting from the transient finite element analysis (FEA) is solved with the implicit Newmark-β scheme. Several numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach in producing multiple closed- and open-cell composite foams tailored to specific design criteria. The optimized FGPSs have the potential to fulfill the requirements for both lightweight and energy absorption in applications subjected to dynamic loads, such as those found in the automotive, aerospace and biomedical industries.

Interaction analysis between single pile and multilayered saturated soils under horizontal transient loading

This study employs the coupled finite element-boundary element method to investigate the dynamic response of single pile subjected to horizontal transient loading, which is a common scenario in high-rise building, transportation, and ocean engineering. Firstly, the single pile is modeled as a Timoshenko beam and then discretized with the finite element method (FEM). The transient solution for multilayered saturated soils due to a horizontal load, serving as the kernel function for the boundary element method (BEM), aids in the derivation of the flexibility matrix of the soils. Considering the pile-soil displacement coordination conditions, the coupled FEM-BEM equation is constructed and solved to characterize the pile-soil interaction. Since the pile discretization pattern is applied consistently to the soils, it is more effective than the discretization of infinite domain in the finite element analysis. The validity of the presented method is confirmed through comparison with the full FEM numerical simulations, demonstrating the correctness and enhanced computational efficiency. Finally, parametric studies are carried out to discuss the effects of pile's length-diameter ratio, soil's shear wave velocity and stratification.

Nonlinear friction dynamics of water-lubricated bearings under transient shocks considering cavitation and turbulence effects

This study proposes a transient elastohydrodynamic mixed lubrication (EHML) model for water-lubricated bearings (WLBs) that incorporates cavitation and turbulence effects to evaluate the nonlinear friction dynamic performance under transient shock loads. The generalized average Reynolds equation is discretized using the control volume technique (CVM), and the constrained system is solved using the Fischer-Burmeister-Newton-Schur (FBNS) method. The validity of the model is verified by a comparison of experimental data from published literature. On this basis, the effects of cavitation, turbulence, shock load amplitude, direction, time, and rotational speed on WLB nonlinear friction dynamics characteristics are investigated. The results show that cavitation induces hydrodynamic loss under transient shock conditions, significantly increases contact time and load, and exacerbates the hydrodynamic instability phenomenon. In contrast, the turbulence effect effectively reduces frictional contact. The stability of WLBs under transient shock conditions is closely related to the load offset angle. Reducing the load offset angle improves the anti-shock stability of the bearings. Nevertheless, an increase in the amplitude and duration of the shock load may result in a deterioration of the frictional contact behavior. Increasing the rotational speed appropriately favors accelerating the lubrication regime transition and improving WLB’s anti-shock stability. This study provides a reference for enhancing WLB anti-shock performance and optimizing structural design.

A wide-output buck DC-DC power management IC

-This article designs and develops a wide-input voltage, high-efficiency, small-size, and peak current-mode control step-down DC-DC converter. The Cadence Spectre simulation tool is used for system simulation to verify the performance of the chip. The overall research content of the article includes the function of the output under heavy load, light load and the stability of the output under transient load changes. The specific content of the research is buck synchronous step-down DC-DC converter chip with pulse modulated. It is provided with an input-voltage range of 6 V–80 V and maximum output-voltage range 72 V. The chip possesses wide operating temperature range of −20 °C to 130 °C. The 92 % high-efficiency can be achieved by using a PWM/PFM hybrid modulation method. When achieving transient load jump, the output voltage change shall not exceed 150 mV. The maximum load current of the chip is 1 A. Furthermore, the chip is packaged and samples can be obtained, and the output light load/heavy load, and other functions are tested through the circuit board. In addition, the chip achieved tape out by using 0.18 μm CMOS process with size of 2027 μm × 2020 μm. The converter features current mode control to simplify external compensation and optimize transient response through a wide range of inductors and output capacitors. It can be adopted user-programmable soft-start time to prevent inrush current during startup. It also includes thermal shutdown protection to provide safe and smooth operation in operating conditions.

An integral approach to plasma-wall interaction modelling for EU-DEMO

Abstract The integral approach to plasma-wall interaction (PWI) modelling for DEMO is presented, which is a part of EUROfusion Theory and Advanced Simulation Coordination (E-TASC) activities that were established to advance the understanding and predictive capabilities for modelling of existing and future fusion devices using a modern advanced computing approach. In view of DEMO design, the aim of PWI modelling activities is to assess safety-relevant information regarding erosion of plasma-facing components (PFC), including its impact on plasma contamination, dust production, fuel inventory, and material response to transient events. This is achieved using a set of powerful and validated computer codes that deal with particular PWI aspects and interact with each other by means of relevant data exchange. Steady state erosion of tungsten PFC and subsequent transport and re-deposition of eroded material are simulated with the ERO2.0 code using a DEMO plasma background produced by dedicated SOLPS-ITER simulations. Dust transport simulations in steady state plasma also rely on the respective SOLPS-ITER solution and are performed with the MIGRAINe code. On the way to improved simulations of tungsten erosion in the divertor of DEMO, relevant high density sheath models are being developed based on Particle-in-Cell (PIC) simulations with the state-of-the-art BIT code family. PIC codes of the SPICE code family, in turn, provide relevant information on multi-emissive sheath physics, such as semi-empirical scaling laws for field-assisted thermionic emission. These scalings laws are essential for simulations of material melting under transient heat loads that are performed with the recently developed MEMENTO code, the successor of MEMOS-U. Fuel retention simulations assess tritium retention in tungsten and structural materials and permeation to coolant accounting for neutron damage, in particular for divertor monoblocks of different sizes, using the FESTIM code, and for the first wall, in particular in view of tritium self-sufficiency, using the TESSIM code. Respective code-code dependencies and interactions, as well as modelling results achieved to date are discussed in the contribution.