Uniform Load Distribution Research Articles

A Universal Target Plate Design Scheme for Stellarators: theoretical basis and its application to heat load control

Abstract This study introduces a novel divertor target design scheme for stellarators, grounded in mathematical treatments and tailored to control toroidal heat load distributions. Initially, a differential equation characterizing toroidally uniform heat load distribution has been established in a two-dimensional (2D) slab configuration, and its analytic solution has been obtained. Subsequently, a numerical scheme has been developed to adapt the analytic solution into the 3D surface shape of stellarator target. The effectiveness of this design scheme has been validated through simulations of the Chinese First Quasi-axisymmetric Stellarator (CFQS) using a suite of codes including HINT, FLARE and EMC3-EIRENE, where a toroidally uniform heat load distribution has been achieved with an island configuration. Further, the effects of input parameters on the target shape and heat load distribution have been studied. The robustness of the designed target has been investigated by simulation results with varying magnetic island configurations, confirming that the toroidal uniformity of heat load distribution is insensitive to changes in island configurations. Moreover, the designed target has been assessed with gas puffing of neon, which shows that neon injections effectively reduce the heat loads without altering the toroidal uniformity of heat load distributions. The proposed scheme highlights the importance of theoretical and mathematical foundations of target design, offering an advantageous alternative/complement to the traditional numerical schemes.

Robustness analysis of dynamic progressive collapse of precast concrete beam–column assemblies using dry connections under uniformly distributed load

A series of dynamic progressive collapse tests using the uniformly distributed load (UDL) was conducted, to analyze the robustness of three precast concrete (PC) beam–column assemblies using dry connections of top-and-seat angles (TSA-D), strengthened top-and-seat angles (STSA-D), and high-ductility reinforcement (DSTSA-D), under a middle column removal scenario. Finite element (FE) models were also developed to accurately simulate the collapse process. Based on the tests and FE models, comparative studies were conducted on dynamic and static collapse responses of the PC assemblies with identical configuration, loading regime, and boundary conditions. The results showed that: the horizontal reaction force developments were similar under dynamic and static collapse scenarios; under dynamic collapse scenarios, the initial stiffness of the PC assemblies increased due to the strain rate effect, while the peak vertical reaction forces under the compressive arch action (CAA) were smaller than those under static collapse scenarios, attributed to dynamic damage; under both dynamic and static collapse scenarios under UDL, the beam deformed in a downward convex curved shape, with local material deformation becoming more concentrated under dynamic collapse scenarios. An energy-based method for calculating dynamic collapse resistance was evaluated and revised: 1) the traditional method, which converts static responses from static analysis into dynamic responses was found to underestimate the resistance under small deformations due to neglecting the strain rate effect, and to overestimate ultimate resistance by ignoring dynamic damage; 2) by using dynamic vertical reaction forces instead, a more accurate prediction of the dynamic collapse resistance was achieved with a single dynamic collapse analysis. Additionally, dynamic amplification factors for the PC assemblies were calculated based on FE models and static test results providing basic knowledge in whole PC structural level research.

From structure to therapy: the critical influence of cartilaginous endplates and microvascular network on intervertebral disc degeneration.

The intervertebral disc (IVD) is the largest avascular structure in the human body. The cartilaginous endplate (CEP) is a layer of translucent cartilage located at the upper and lower edges of the vertebral bodies. On one hand, CEPs endure pressure from within the IVD and the tensile and shear forces of the annulus fibrosus, promoting uniform distribution of compressive loads on the vertebral bodies. On the other hand, microvascular diffusion channels within the CEP serve as the primary routes for nutrient supply to the IVD and the transport of metabolic waste. Degenerated CEP, characterized by increased stiffness, decreased permeability, and reduced water content, impairs substance transport and mechanical response within the IVD, ultimately leading to intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). Insufficient nutrition of the IVD has long been considered the initiating factor of IDD, with CEP degeneration regarded as an early contributing factor. Additionally, CEP degeneration is frequently accompanied by Modic changes, which are common manifestations in the progression of IDD. Therefore, this paper comprehensively reviews the structure and physiological functions of CEP and its role in the cascade of IDD, exploring the intrinsic relationship between CEP degeneration and Modic changes from various perspectives. Furthermore, we summarize recent potential therapeutic approaches targeting CEP to delay IDD, offering new insights into the pathological mechanisms and regenerative repair strategies for IDD.

АНАЛІЗ ВПЛИВУ ІНДИВІДУАЛЬНИХ ХАРАКТЕРИСТИК КОМІРОК LiFePO4 НА ПАРАМЕТРИ РОБОТИ АКУМУЛЯТОРНИХ ЗБІРОК

The article analyzes the influence of the individual characteristics of lithium-iron-phosphate (LiFePO4) cells on the overall efficiency, stability and duration of operation of battery assemblies. The influence of such parameters as internal resistance, polarization resistance and capacity on the operation of battery assemblies under different load regimes and changes in temperature conditions was studied. It was found that these parameters can vary significantly between cells within the same assembly, which leads to an imbalance during the operation of the battery system. Such an imbalance causes an uneven distribution of charge between the cells, which reduces the overall performance of the system, accelerates the degradation of the cells and shortens their service life. To overcome these problems, the use of active balancing methods based on Unscented Kalman Filter (UKF) algorithms was proposed. The application of UKF allows for dynamic evaluation of the state of charge (SOC) of each cell and adjustment of system parameters in real time, which provides more accurate management of battery assemblies in conditions of variable external factors such as temperature and current loads. Special attention is paid to online identification of battery parameters, such as polarization resistance and capacity, which change over time due to cell aging. The conducted studies confirmed that constant monitoring of temperature regimes is critically important for maintaining stable operation of battery cells, preventing overheating and ensuring uniform load distribution. The performed simulation confirmed the effectiveness of the application of adaptive methods of balancing and temperature control, which allows to increase the reliability and overall performance of battery assemblies.

A size‐dependent model of strain gradient elastic laminated micro‐beams with a weak adhesive layer

AbstractA size‐dependent model for a laminated micro‐beam with a soft adhesive is developed in the framework of strain gradient elasticity theory. The layered beam is constituted by two Euler–Bernoulli strain gradient elastic isotropic beams, joined through a strain gradient spring‐type contact law at the adhesive level. The governing bending and extensional equations and boundary conditions are obtained by using the variational principle. The differential system shows a coupling between the flexural and axial behaviors of the upper and lower beams, due to the presence of interface terms related to shear and peeling stresses. Two benchmark problems have been presented through their closed‐form solutions, namely a simply‐supported laminated beam subjected to a uniform distributed load and a mode 2‐type loading configuration of a layered axially deformable beam. Size effects and non‐local phenomena, due to high strain concentrations, are highlighted. Though simple in their features, the examples prove the efficiency of the proposed approach in designing micro‐scale layered beams.

Stabilization of gels and emulsions in the ternary water/eugenol/poloxamer 407-system: Physicochemical characterization and potential application as encapsulation platforms

The ternary system water/eugenol/poloxamer 407 can form a variety of phases that are strongly influenced by the mixture composition and the thermal history of the system. In this study, we investigated the stabilization of emulsion and gel-like systems in which eugenol is encapsulated in a poloxamer 407 matrix. Our results reveal the complex interplay between poloxamer 407 and eugenol compositions in the stabilization single-phase systems at 25ºC. Increasing concentrations of poloxamer were found to incorporate higher amounts of eugenol into emulsion-like dispersions, effectively preventing coalescence and Ostwald ripening. However, high concentrations of poloxamer 407 induced gelation of these dispersions, resulting in eugenol-loaded poloxamer 407 gels. The thermal annealing of the emulsions at 65°C for 1 h followed by equilibration at room temperature allows the extension of the compositional range for the formation of homogeneous single-phase systems providing a strategy to modulate the phase diagram of the ternary system. Additionally, the encapsulation of hydrophobic pesticides in gel-like matrices was investigated, showing uniform distribution and consistent loading capacity (approximately 0.70 % w/w) across different pesticides which may contribute to facilitate the environmental distribution and efficacy of the encapsulated molecules. This research highlights the potential of eugenol/poloxamer 407-based systems as an environmentally friendly platform for the encapsulation and delivery of hydrophobic active molecules, offering a versatile solution for various applications.

Numerical and experimental blast response of multilayer laminated glass panels

Laminated glass is used in high-security buildings to mitigate the effects of blasts and ballistic loadings. The multi-layered composition of the laminated glass (LG) panels allows the glass panes to crack and undergo large deflections while preventing glass shards from spalling by mostly remaining attached to the polymeric interlayer. To characterize multilayer LG panels under blast loading, it is essential to develop their static resistance response under uniform loading. A full-scale water chamber was used to experimentally evaluate the quasistatic response to the failure of the multilayer LG panel systems under uniform pressure. The influence of different polymeric interlayer types on the response of multilayer LG panels was studied. Also, the glass breakage patterns and deflections exhibited by various multilayer glass configurations were investigated. The response of LG panels under blast was developed using ANSYS AUTODYN, which was verified using field experiments. LG panels with an Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) polymeric interlayer experienced the most dynamic deflections, whereas LG panels with an ionoplast SentryGlas® (SG) polymeric interlayer displayed the least dynamic deflections. The results indicated that multilayer LG systems provide higher blast resistance compared to double-layer systems; the additional layers can help reduce glass breakage and maintain structural integrity. Multilayer LG system’s SG interlayer enhanced blast protection by allowing load transfer and ensuring uniform load distribution between glass layers.

A novel method for shape pre-optimization of fir-tree couplings in blade-disk connections

This paper presents an innovative approach to the pre-optimization of the blade-disk fir-tree coupling, with the intent of advancing the design and analysis of such connections in turbomachinery. These couplings are subjected to extreme mechanical loads, primarily from centrifugal forces during turbine operation, compounded by aerodynamic and vibrational forces. These conditions pose substantial challenges to ensuring the structural integrity and long-term reliability of the connections. Failure of the blade-disk attachment can lead to catastrophic consequences, making the optimization of these joints crucial.The proposed pre-optimization method addresses this by optimizing the distribution of material between the blade-root, disk-post, and engaging teeth, ensuring uniform load distribution across all teeth. A novel one-dimensional radial spring model is introduced, which simplifies the representation of the joint. The method achieves accurate load-sharing without requiring knowledge of the spring stiffness values, instead relying on stiffness ratios, which in turn are approximated equal to ratios between the areas of throat cross-sections. This approach effectively balances tensile stresses, contact pressures, and, proportionally, local stress peaks, all while streamlining the design process.Validation against finite element models demonstrates the model’s accuracy across different joint configurations with varying numbers of teeth. This method serves as a foundation for more detailed analysis and future optimization efforts, including those targeting specific failure mechanisms such as fretting fatigue and peak stress mitigation. Overall, this work offers a practical and efficient approach to enhancing the performance and reliability of blade-disk connections in turbomachinery.

Comparative static analysis of functionally graded porous curved beams: Deterministic versus stochastic approaches

This study presents a comprehensive exploration of the comparative static analysis of functionally graded porous curved beams, examining deterministic versus stochastic approaches. The material randomness is incorporated using a stochastic finite element model. The formulation employed in this study utilizes three-noded elements and combines a higher-order shear deformation theory (HSDT) with the probabilistic first-order perturbation technique. The investigation focuses on an FGM curved beams incorporating various porosity models, including even, uneven, and sinusoidal distributions. The FGM porous curved beam is subjected to a uniform distributed load, and the study aims to determine the stochastic bending responses under these conditions. Additionally, various parameters influencing bending response, such as boundary conditions, geometric configurations, volume fraction indices, and porosity distributions, are examined. The uncertain bending responses are assessed in terms of material stochasticity using a stochastic finite element model, with validation through Monte Carlo simulation. Subsequent research endeavors within this field may investigate the impact of random fluctuations on both geometry and boundary conditions.

Research and engineering application of layout optimization for lockbolt structures in railway wagons considering multidimensional failure modes based on MSNSGA-III

The lockbolt structure is essential in railway wagons, and a scientific lockbolt layout can ensure uniform load distribution, thereby preventing failure. However, current engineering lacks layout optimization methods that address multidimensional failure modes. This paper presents a new lockbolt structure layout optimization method based on submodel, parametric models, and a multi-strategy integrated NSGA-III (MSNSGA-III), adhering to the DVS EFB 3435-2 standard. This method simultaneously optimizes the number and spacing of lockbolts to prevent tensile, bearing, shear, and other static failure modes under specified load conditions. The proposed method was applied during the design phase of a container flatcar. Optimization results indicate that, compared to NSGA-III, this method achieves the best IGD and HV values across multiple complex test functions, demonstrating superior performance in solving complex Pareto front optimization problems. Additionally, the optimized lockbolt structure's safety margins increased by a maximum of 59.81%, passing the full vehicle strength test and significantly enhancing resistance to multidimensional failure modes. These results highlight the method's significant practical application value in addressing the optimization of railway wagon lockbolt structures under complex multidimensional failure modes.

Nonlinear dynamic study of FG-GFRC-NPR structures

The functionally graded glass fibre-reinforced polymer composite(FG-GFRC) is one of the contemporary sophisticated materials that may be employed for a variety of technical purposes. The shock absorption capacity of FG-GFRP laminates can be improved by incorporating auxetic property (i.e., negative Poisson's ratio NPR) in the structures, which can be attained by a particular stacking sequence of glass fibres (GF) and a different percentage of GF distribution along the thickness direction within the FG-GFRP structure. The nonlinear dynamic behaviour of such structures must be investigated. The clamped-clamped FG-GFRP-NPR structure is stimulated under a uniform transverse load distribution in the current work. Based on the higher-order shear deformation theory (SDT), the displacement field and nonlinear stress–strain relationship are derived. The nonlinear differential equation with cubic non-linear components were derived using Hamilton’s principle and transformed using Galerkin’s technique and obtained governing equation of motion. MATLAB has been used to conduct all numerical simulations. A time series, a phase picture and a Poincare diagram (PCM) were generated to characterize the vibration behavior of such auxetic structures.

Novel and Low-Cost Techniques for Extending the Etch Capabilities of an Inductively Coupled Plasma Etch Tool That Has Clamp Fingers for Clamping 4-Inch Diameter Wafers

Widening the processing capabilities of an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) etch tool by “preventing wafer breakage” during processing of wafers, or by gaining the capability to do “through-wafer silicon etch” are important challenges that may need to be resolved with very limited resources. Resolving the undesired wafer breakage issues caused during processing of wafers is important to reduce the manufacturing costs, and increase production yield. Furthermore, considering the high prices of the state-of-the-art wafer processing tools, it is also important to prevent wafer breakage by using low-cost approaches especially if the resources for purchasing state-of-the-art processing equipment are not available. Two novel methods (method #1, and method #2) are developed to prevent wafer breakage and allow through-wafer silicon etching. With method #1, an aluminium alloy ring (AAR) and an o-ring are employed to obtain uniform load distribution (instead of point loads) on the required outer region on the surface of a wafer, and to minimize or completely remove the bending moment that may be formed on the possible cross-sections of the entire wafer, during clamping of the wafer. With method #2, through-wafer silicon etching is made possible by simultaneous application of method #1 and addition of a helium cooling gas (HCG) leakage blocking dicing tape at the back side of the wafer that is under processing for through-wafer etching. By using the explained methods, wafer breakage during ICP etch processing is eliminated, and through-wafer silicon etching is made possible. From the other side, the effective wafer area that can be used for processing is reduced by 48%. Novel and capability enabling 2 different techniques that are extremely low-cost compared to purchasing a state-of-the-art ICP etch tool are presented to extend the processing capabilities of an ICP etch tool for deep silicon etching (method #1), and through-wafer silicon etching (method #2).

Optimization of Fuel Consumption by Controlling the Load Distribution between Engines in an LNG Ship Electric Propulsion Plant

Due to growing environmental concerns and stringent emissions regulations, optimizing the fuel consumption of marine propulsion systems is crucial. This work deals with the potential in an LNG ship propulsion system to reduce fuel consumption through controlled load distribution between engines in Dual-Fuel Diesel Electric (DFDE) plant. Based on cyclical data acquisition measured onboard and using an optimization model, this study evaluates different load distribution strategies between setups according to the optimization model results and automatic (equal) operation to determine their effectiveness in improving fuel efficiency. The analysis includes scenarios with different fuel types, including LNG, MDO and HFO, at different engine loads. The results indicate that load distribution adjustment based on the optimization model results significantly improves fuel efficiency compared to conventional methods of uniform load distribution controlled by power management systems in almost all load intervals. This research contributes to the maritime industry by demonstrating that strategic load management can achieve significant fuel savings and reduce environmental impact, which is in line with global sustainability goals. This work not only provides a framework for the implementation of more efficient energy management systems on LNG vessels, but also sets a benchmark for future innovations in maritime energy optimization as well as in the view of exhaust emission reduction.

Experimental and finite element analysis of surface asperity geometry during the running-in phase of rolling contact

This paper presents the experimental and finite element analysis of surface asperity geometry during the running-in phase of rolling contact. Previous research efforts typically relied on simulating various shapes of asperity geometry to elucidate rough surface characteristics. However, this approximation did not accurately represent the actual surface asperities. In this study, a rolling contact rig was fabricated, and periodic surface scans were utilized to track the deformation of roller surface asperities. The experimental findings reveal a notable 69% reduction in surface roughness throughout the running-in phase, alongside showcasing the deformation of asperity geometry. Subsequently, a simulation model is developed using data derived from these experiments. Stress analysis conducted on individual and multiple asperities illustrates a decrease in contact stress over time, indicating a transition in contact behavior from plastic to elastic. Furthermore, simulations involving multiple asperities demonstrate an expansion in contact length as roughness diminishes with increasing cycles. Initially, only the highest peaks of asperities make contact, resulting in elevated contact stress. However, as rolling cycles progress, a greater number of asperities come into contact, leading to a more uniform distribution of load. Notably, the more prominent asperities endure significant contact stress and deformation compared to their smaller counterparts.

Multi-objective optimization and accelerated experimental research on load distribution of planetary roller screw mechanism

Load distribution is a critical characteristic that determines the load carrying capacity of planetary roller screw mechanism (PRSM). First, a load distribution calculation model is established. Subsequently, a multi-objective optimization model to achieve uniform load distribution is constructed based on NSGA-II. Then, considering the optimization effect, machining feasibility and machining efficiency, the optimal load uniform distribution design method for linear thinning of thread thickness is determined using the analytical hierarchy process. Finally, an accelerated test method of PRSM load-bearing characteristics based on abrasive technology is proposed for the first time. The experimental results show that after optimization, the maximum contact width decreases by 12.5% and the fluctuation amplitude decreases by 74.6%, which significantly improves the uniformity of PRSM load distribution.

Parametric Study of Structural Seismic Response: Correlation Between Lateral Load, Displacement, and Stiffness

Indonesia, located near the convergence of major tectonic plates, often experiences significant earthquakes that impact buildings. Many houses damaged by earthquakes are simple structures with red brick masonry. This study analyzes the seismic performance of masonry houses using ETABS software, assuming the houses are in seismic zone 4 and built on soft soil. The analysis focuses on the correlation between lateral loads, displacement, and structural stiffness. The results indicate that the maximum lateral load occurs in the X direction, while the maximum displacement occurs in the Y direction, indicating higher flexibility in the Y direction. Higher structural stiffness reduces displacement but also increases inertia forces. The nonlinear correlation between lateral loads and displacement, as well as the decrease in effective structural stiffness with increasing lateral loads, underscores the importance of balancing stiffness and flexibility in structural design. This study provides valuable insights for earthquake-resistant building design, particularly for masonry houses in earthquake-prone areas of Indonesia. The analysis emphasizes the importance of reinforcing critical areas and ensuring a more uniform distribution of lateral loads to enhance structural resilience to earthquakes. Keywords: ETABS, House, Life Safety, Performance, Seismic

Limit analysis of planar steel frames, in-element plastic-hinge for uniformly distributed loads

This work calculates the collapse load and collapse mechanism of 2D frames with slender structural members and uniformly distributed loads. The search for the collapse mechanism and the collapse load is carried out using step by step method: the load factor is increased and at each step the balance and compatibility equations must be satisfied that the value of the plastic moment is not exceeded in any section. It is verified that the results are different in the cases of point loads and uniform distributed loads, both from a qualitative and quantitative point of view.

Dynamic characteristics of compound rotor system of mechanically rectified permanent magnet generator

The compound rotor system of a mechanically rectified permanent magnet generator is the key structure to realize the rectification function. The dynamics of the compound rotor system under bidirectional input conditions are studied to analyze the vibration deformation degree of each component of the rotor system and to ensure the uniform distribution of the shunt load of each planetary gear. In this paper, based on the theory of concentrated mass parameters, a dynamic model of the compound rotor system under the condition of bidirectional input is established. The model is solved with the Runge-Kutta numerical integration method. The dynamics of each component under the condition of bidirectional input are obtained. The results show that the oscillations of torsional displacement of each component of the compound rotor system are all about 25 μm, and the standard deviations of the meshing forces of each planetary shunt are all about 200 N during the two-way input, indicating that the vibration degree of the compound rotor system is similar; The load sharing coefficient of meshing forces decreases obviously with the increase of input torque and tends to be gentle when the torque reaches 500 N·m. Therefore, increasing the input torque can improve the dynamic meshing force and load sharing performance, so that the compound rotor system can obtain better dynamic performance under the bidirectional input condition. The research results are of great significance for the vibration and noise reduction and reliable operation of the permanent magnet generator.

Experimental study and numerical simulation of the impact of under-sleeper pads on the dynamic and static mechanical behavior of heavy-haul railway ballast track

AbstractLaying the under-sleeper pad (USP) is one of the effective measures commonly used to delay ballast degradation and reduce maintenance workload. To explore the impact of application of the USP on the dynamic and static mechanical behavior of the ballast track in the heavy-haul railway system, numerical simulation models of the ballast bed with USP and without USP are presented in this paper by using the discrete element method (DEM)—multi-flexible body dynamic (MFBD) coupling analysis method. The ballast bed support stiffness test and dynamic displacement tests were carried out on the actual operation of a heavy-haul railway line to verify the validity of the models. The results show that using the USP results in a 43.01% reduction in the ballast bed support stiffness and achieves a more uniform distribution of track loads on the sleepers. It effectively reduces the load borne by the sleeper directly under the wheel load, with a 7.89% reduction in the pressure on the sleeper. Furthermore, the laying of the USP changes the lateral resistance sharing ratio of the ballast bed, significantly reducing the stress level of the ballast bed under train loads, with an average stress reduction of 42.19 kPa. It also reduces the plastic displacement of ballast particles and lowers the peak value of rotational angular velocity by about 50% to 70%, which is conducive to slowing down ballast bed settlement deformation and reducing maintenance costs. In summary, laying the USP has a potential value in enhancing the stability and extending the lifespan of the ballast bed in heavy-haul railway systems.

The influence of different load distribution considering geometric error on the fatigue life of ball screw

The ball screw pair is a precision drive component that converts rotary motion into linear motion. In practical applications, because the feed system usually has rotational torque and geometric errors, it may increase the contact load of the ball screw pair and reduce the fatigue life. In order to study the influence of different loads and geometric errors on the maximum contact load and fatigue life of ball screw pairs, the following research work was carried out. Firstly, based on the composite load and rotational torque, the ball load distribution model is established, and the accuracy of the model is verified by finite element modeling analysis. Then, the influence of different composite loads, rotation times and geometric errors (including ball size error, lead error and raceway tooth profile error) on the ball load distribution is analyzed. Finally, the influence of compound load, rotating torque and geometric error on the fatigue life of ball screw pairs is studied. The results show that the rotational torque and lead error have a great influence on the load distribution and fatigue life of the ball, and the influence of lead error on load distribution is greater than that of dimension error and tooth profile error. The fatigue life of the ball screw pair with non-uniform load distribution is shorter than that of the ball screw pair with uniform load distribution.