Papers by Keyword: Structural Analysis

Abstract: This paper presents the design and structural analysis of a support system for a 3D printer, developed to improve resin drainage by enabling rotational movement along two axes. Three design variants were created, and after evaluating their performance, the second variant was chosen for its higher torque capacity and potential for future enhancements. This variant showed the most promise in achieving the desired functionality while allowing for further optimization. Finite element analysis (FEA) was utilized to investigate the structural behavior of the support system under loading conditions, ensuring the design remained within the elastic range. The FEA simulations were performed using Beam, Solid, and Shell element types, which provided insights into stress and strain distribution within the structure. This analysis guided the design process, allowing for refinements that improved the structural integrity and load-bearing capacity of the support. Alongside FEA, analytical calculations were performed to assess the bending stress and shear forces on the aluminum profile under three-point bending conditions. These calculations confirmed that the support structure was capable of handling the operational loads while staying within the elastic domain, ensuring reliable performance. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of combining finite element analysis with analytical methods to optimize the design of 3D printer support systems. The results highlight the potential for enhancing the performance and efficiency of additive manufacturing processes through improved structural designs.

Abstract: Prolonged use of electronic devices such as computers, mobile phones, laptops, and tablets can lead to adverse health effects, particularly Low Back Pain (LBP) and Cervical Root Syndrome (CRS). Traction therapy, a non-invasive treatment involving pulling force to the lumbar and cervical spine, has proven effective in relieving LBP and CRS. This study presents the design of an integrated lumbar and cervical traction system that is ergonomic and easy to operate. To determine the ergonomics of traction, a risk analysis of body injury was carried out using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) method. This assessment was conducted and yielded a score of 2, indicating an ergonomic design. As a preliminary step, a traction frame design was carried out, followed by a structural analysis using ANSYS Workbench 2024 R2. The simulation results showed that with a load of 150 kg of a structural steel frame, the critical stress on the bed was 147.55 MPa and 191.47 MPa in the overall traction frame. Both values were lower than the tensile yield strength of structural steel, which is 250 MPa, confirming the safety of the full traction frame.

Abstract: Water distribution systems are critical to urban infrastructure, especially in regions facing water scarcity. This study focuses on the design of an innovative water distribution system with smart monitoring for Ongwediva Town in Namibia, addressing challenges due to population growth and climate variability. By integrating advanced sensors and smart technologies, the system measures real-time water level and monitors flow rate, thereby reducing water loss and operational costs. Calculations for key components, including the ultrasonic water level sensor, critical buckling load, pump size, and photovoltaic (PV) requirements, are presented. The water level sensor provides accurate distance measurements based on ultrasonic pulse timing, while the flow rate sensor achieves a calibrated flow of 1.2 l/min. Structural analysis of the water tower support yields a moment of inertia of 5.33×10^-9 m⁴, and a critical buckling stress of 1.37E×10^-7 N/m², confirming the suitability of mild steel. A 30 W pump powered by a 100 W PV system ensures reliable operation with minimal energy consumption. The daily energy requirement of 240 Wh and the adjusted requirement of 300 Wh highlight the importance of considering system efficiency in energy calculations. Accounting for a system efficiency of 80% ensures that the solar power system is adequately sized to meet operational demands without running into energy shortfalls. The system’s real-time data transmission allows for proactive leak detection and optimized water management, significantly improving sustainability. Testing and calibration confirm the system's reliability, offering a scalable model for other municipalities.

Abstract: This study contributes to the development of more resilient and responsive control systems for industrial robotics. Industrial robot arms are subject to various vibrational forces during various operations, which can limit their accuracy and response time. This paper studies the vibration characteristics of a robotic arm through real world measurement and Finite Element Analysis (FEA). The robot arm is the MELFA RV-2SDB15. In this paper, the authors determine the dynamic parameters of the examined manipulator. Experimental measurement is carried out with a modal approach. Optimization techniques are employed to develop an accurate CAD model of the robotic arm.

Abstract: The heterojunction structure Cd(OH)₂/Bi₁₀Cd₃O₂₀ was successfully constructed through a straightforward hydrothermal method. The product was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Diffuse reflectance spectrum (DRS), Raman analysis, photocurrent and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements. SEM, HRTEM and Raman analysis confirmed that the nanorod Bi₁₀Cd₃O₂₀ was effectively stacked on the surface of the hexagonal microblock Cd(OH)₂, forming the heterojunction composite. This composite demonstrated exceptional photocatalytic performance in the degradation of azo dye pollutants, with a degradation rate for Rhodamine B reaching 98% under optimal synthesis conditions. A plausible photocatalytic mechanism for the heterojunction composite, based on a type I n-n heterojunction, was also proposed. The heterostructure significantly facilitates the migration and separation of charge carriers, thereby enhancing the photoactivity and stability.

Abstract: This study presents a streamlined approach to the structural analysis and design of a single column building, employing two prominent engineering software tools: STAAD Pro for structural analysis and RCDC for the design of reinforced concrete elements. The research focuses on a model that utilizes a central supporting column to maximize space and enhance architectural flexibility, a concept gaining traction in modern urban development for its efficiency and aesthetic potential. Through STAAD Pro, the study conducts a detailed structural analysis to assess the load distribution, displacement, and stress factors affecting the single column, considering dynamic and static loads to simulate real-world conditions. Following the analysis, RCDC is used to design the reinforcement details of the column, ensuring it meets the required strength, durability, and compliance with relevant building codes and standards. The findings illustrate the effectiveness of integrating STAAD Pro and RCDC in optimizing the structural integrity and sustainability of single column buildings, demonstrating their viability in contemporary architectural design and construction. This study contributes valuable insights into the application of advanced software tools in structural engineering, highlighting their role in facilitating innovative building solutions.

Abstract: Undoped and Ni-Eu co-doped ZnO thin films were successfully fabricated via spray pyrolysis at 400°C. The impact of co-doping on the structural, morphological, electrical, and optical properties of the thin films was thoroughly investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the absence of secondary phases and verified the successful incorporation of dopant ions into the ZnO lattice. Morphological examination revealed enhanced crystallization and a more uniform surface following the incorporation of nickel. Spectral studies in the UV-Vis region were conducted to determine the optical band gap of the synthesized ZnO films, indicating a slight decrease in bandgap values and volume and surface energy losses (VELF and SELF) with increasing Ni doping concentration. Photoluminescence spectra exhibited emission peaks in the UV region around 415 nm and broad visible emissions spanning 450-650 nm for all samples. Electrical characterization using Hall Effect measurements confirmed n-type electrical conductivity in all prepared films, as evidenced by the observed negative Hall coefficients. The co-doped ZnO thin films, particularly those incorporating Ni-Eu, show promise for applications in electronic and optoelectronic devices. Additionally, we investigated the photodegradation of green malachite under a UV lamp. Remarkably, the results demonstrated degradation rates of 93% within 2 hours, showcasing promising potential for practical applications.

Abstract: The use of aluminium as material of choice in the manufacture of window and door openings in Mauritius has escalated significantly in recent years. This has given rise to a considerable number of small-and medium-sized companies operating in the aluminium fabrication sector. The main aim of this study was to identify and investigate the common problems reported with aluminium openings and to assess the structural resistance, water-tightness and safety of the openings. A survey was carried out among local aluminium importers and fabrication companies to gather information about the different profiles and grades of aluminium commonly used for exterior window and door applications in the residential sector. A questionnaire was designed and circulated to clients of aluminium fenestration products. This helped to identify the most common problems encountered with aluminium openings. Site visits were also conducted which enabled the investigation of some common problems identified such as water ingress and rigidity of moving parts. The structural loading of openings was assessed using finite element analysis using SolidWorks. Models of openings of different sizes and corresponding to typical opening designs used locally were created and a uniform pressure was applied on the frames. This uniform pressure was derived from a wind speed of 280 km/h – the maximum wind speed used for design calculations for buildings in Mauritius. The resulting deflections were analysed and compared to the maximum permissible deflections – which were calculated using the guidelines of North American Fenestration Standard (NAFS-11). Results showed that the maximum deflections for frames sizes exceeding a span of 1.5 m, exceeded the maximum allowable values, and necessitated the use of more rigid profiles. Deflections observed in the triple frame design were also higher than those in the double frame. These observations point out to the need of selecting the right profiles for different sized applications to ensure that openings do not incur significant deflections when subjected to wind loads, which would be encountered during severe cyclonic conditions in the island.

Abstract: Currently, the difficulty of delivering packages, goods in transportation is a very concerning issue in both urban and suburban areas when traffic congestion is increasing significantly. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to design an unmanned aerial vehicle using quadrotor to transport goods such as food, home appliances or drugs, and blood to customers. This paper presents the sizing algorithm applying blade element momentum theory to determine necessary specifications for the electric propulsion system of multicopters. These results are then used to design the appropriate configuration that can handle the mission profile. Finally, analyzing and evaluating structural strength and failure of the designed delivery drone by applying the Tsai-Wu criterion.

Abstract: Over a long period of operation, under the influence of corrosion and stresses from the acting forces, metal structures lose their strength. There is a need for their periodic non-destructive testing. The development of new methods is relevant in the field of control of building metal structures, such as bridge structures, structures of building cranes and other mechanical engineering products. The applied methods should be reliable and should not require huge material and labor costs. In this work, informational relationships between acoustic characteristics and parameters of metal microstructure are established. The proposed method can be useful for specialists and experts in the field of monitoring the technical condition of metal products requiring non-destructive testing. The safety of the operated objects depends on the accuracy of the applied criteria, as well as the degree of resource saving due to the full use of the product resource.