Vibration Control of the Rail Grinding Vehicle with Abrasive Belt Based on Structural Optimization and Lightweight Design

As a new grinding and maintenance technology,rail belt grinding shows significant advantages in many applications The dynamic characteristics of the rail belt grinding vehicle largely determines its grinding performance and service life.In order to explore the vibration control method of the rail grinding vehicle with abrasive belt,the vibration response changes in structural optimization and lightweight design are respectively analyzed through transient response and random vibration simulations in this paper.Firstly,the transient response simulation analysis of the rail grinding vehicle with abrasive belt is carried out under operating conditions and non-operating conditions.Secondly,the vibration control of the grinding vehicle is implemented by setting vibration isolation elements,optimizing the structure,and increasing damping.Thirdly,in order to further explore the dynamic characteristics of the rail grinding vehicle,the random vibration simulation analysis of the grinding vehicle is carried out under the condition of the horizontal irregularity of the American AAR6 track.Finally,by replacing the Q235 steel frame material with 7075 aluminum alloy and LA43M magnesium alloy,both vibration control and lightweight design can be achieved simultaneously.The results of transient dynamic response analysis show that the acceleration of most positions in the two working conditions exceeds the standard value in GB/T 17426-1998 standard.By optimizing the structure of the grinding vehicle in three ways,the average vibration acceleration of the whole car is reduced by about 55.1%from 15.6 m/s^(2) to 7.0 m/s^(2).The results of random vibration analysis show that the grinding vehicle with Q235 steel frame does not meet the safety conditions of 3σ.By changing frame material,the maximum vibration stress of the vehicle can be reduced from 240.7 MPa to 160.0 MPa and the weight of the grinding vehicle is reduced by about 21.7%from 1500 kg to 1175 kg.The modal analysis results indicate that the vibration control of the grinding vehicle can be realized by optimizing the structure and replacing the materials with lower stiffness under the premise of ensuring the overall strength.The study provides the basis for the development of lightweight,diversified and efficient rail grinding equipment.

Web Layout Design of Large Cavity Structures Based on Topology Optimization

Large cavity structures are widely employed in aerospace engineering, such as thin-walled cylinders, blades andwings. Enhancing performance of aerial vehicles while reducing manufacturing costs and fuel consumptionhas become a focal point for contemporary researchers. Therefore, this paper aims to investigate the topologyoptimization of large cavity structures as a means to enhance their performance, safety, and efficiency. By usingthe variable density method, lightweight design is achieved without compromising structural strength. Theoptimization model considers both concentrated and distributed loads, and utilizes techniques like sensitivityfiltering and projection to obtain a robust optimized configuration. The mechanical properties are checked bycomparing the stress distribution and displacement of the unoptimized and optimized structures under the sameload. The results confirm that the optimized structures exhibit improved mechanical properties, thus offering keyinsights for engineering lightweight, high-strength large cavity structures.

A Hybrid Level Set Optimization Design Method of Functionally Graded Cellular Structures Considering Connectivity

With the continuous advancement in topology optimization and additive manufacturing(AM)technology,the capability to fabricate functionally graded materials and intricate cellular structures with spatially varying microstructures has grown significantly.However,a critical challenge is encountered in the design of these structures–the absence of robust interface connections between adjacent microstructures,potentially resulting in diminished efficiency or macroscopic failure.A Hybrid Level Set Method(HLSM)is proposed,specifically designed to enhance connectivity among non-uniform microstructures,contributing to the design of functionally graded cellular structures.The HLSM introduces a pioneering algorithm for effectively blending heterogeneous microstructure interfaces.Initially,an interpolation algorithm is presented to construct transition microstructures seamlessly connected on both sides.Subsequently,the algorithm enables the morphing of non-uniform unit cells to seamlessly adapt to interconnected adjacent microstructures.The method,seamlessly integrated into a multi-scale topology optimization framework using the level set method,exhibits its efficacy through numerical examples,showcasing its prowess in optimizing 2D and 3D functionally graded materials(FGM)and multi-scale topology optimization.In essence,the pressing issue of interface connections in complex structure design is not only addressed but also a robust methodology is introduced,substantiated by numerical evidence,advancing optimization capabilities in the realm of functionally graded materials and cellular structures.

Multi-Scale Design and Optimization of Composite Material Structure for Heavy-Duty Truck Protection Device

In this paper,to present a lightweight-developed front underrun protection device(FUPD)for heavy-duty trucks,plain weave carbon fiber reinforced plastic(CFRP)is used instead of the original high-strength steel.First,the mechanical and structural properties of plain carbon fiber composite anti-collision beams are comparatively analyzed from a multi-scale perspective.For studying the design capability of carbon fiber composite materials,we investigate the effects of TC-33 carbon fiber diameter(D),fiber yarn width(W)and height(H),and fiber yarn density(N)on the front underrun protective beam of carbon fiber compositematerials.Based on the investigation,a material-structure matching strategy suitable for the front underrun protective beam of heavy-duty trucks is proposed.Next,the composite material structure is optimized by applying size optimization and stack sequence optimization methods to obtain the higher performance carbon fiber composite front underrun protection beam of commercial vehicles.The results show that the fiber yarn height(H)has the greatest influence on the protective beam,and theH1matching scheme for the front underrun protective beamwith a carbon fiber composite structure exhibits superior performance.The proposed method achieves a weight reduction of 55.21% while still meeting regulatory requirements,which demonstrates its remarkable weight reduction effect.

Random Forest-Based Fatigue Reliability-Based Design Optimization for Aeroengine Structures

Fatigue reliability-based design optimization of aeroengine structures involves multiple repeated calculations of reliability degree and large-scale calls of implicit high-nonlinearity limit state function,leading to the traditional direct Monte Claro and surrogate methods prone to unacceptable computing efficiency and accuracy.In this case,by fusing the random subspace strategy and weight allocation technology into bagging ensemble theory,a random forest(RF)model is presented to enhance the computing efficiency of reliability degree;moreover,by embedding the RF model into multilevel optimization model,an efficient RF-assisted fatigue reliability-based design optimization framework is developed.Regarding the low-cycle fatigue reliability-based design optimization of aeroengine turbine disc as a case,the effectiveness of the presented framework is validated.The reliabilitybased design optimization results exhibit that the proposed framework holds high computing accuracy and computing efficiency.The current efforts shed a light on the theory/method development of reliability-based design optimization of complex engineering structures.

Structural optimization of a reusable seismic frame active link

Circular design encompasses the use of inventive construction methodologies that possess the capability to be readily dismantled,repurposed,or recycled upon reaching the conclusion of their functional lifespan.This work specifically examines the creation of a reusable design case-study idea for seismic frame design,which is commonly employed in steel-frame constructions in New Zealand.A reusable optimized design for the full seismic frame was proposed in the research.Optimizing the dimensions of welded structures,whether in terms of weight or cost,leads to a decrease in the weight of the steel utilized.The decrease in weight is directly associated with a decrease in environ-mental impact,as the environmental impact is directly proportional to the mass of the construction.The environmental consequences associated with welding technique are contingent upon the dimensions of the weld,hence exerting an indirect influence on the overall mass of the structure.Given the presence of mass dependence in all three areas,albeit in distinct manners,this work employed a multi-objective function optimization strategy to simultaneously address these areas while also partially evaluating them separately.On this way substantial reductions can be achieved both at structural mass and environmental effects.

Cost-optimization based target reliabilities for design of structures exposed to fire

Adequacy of structural fire design in uncommon structures is conceptually ensured through cost-benefit analysis where the future costs are balanced against the benefits of safety investment.Cost-benefit analyses,however,are complicated and computationally challenging,and hence impractical for application to individual projects.To address this issue,design guidance proposes target reliability indices for normal design conditions,but no target reliability indices are defined for structural fire design.We revisit the background of the cost-optimization based approach underlying normal design target reliability indices then we extend this approach for the case of fire design of structures.We also propose a modified objective function for cost-optimization which simplifies the evaluation of target reliability indices and reduces the number of assumptions.The optimum safety level is expressed as a function of a new dimensionless variable named“Damage-to-investment indicator”(DII).The cost optimization approach is validated for the target reliability indices for normal design condition.The method is then applied for evaluating DII and the associated optimum reliability indices for fire-exposed structures.Two case studies are presented:(i)a one-way loaded reinforced concrete slab and(ii)a steel column under axial loading.This study thus provides a framework for deriving optimum(target)reliability index for structural fire design which can support the development of rational provisions in codes and standards.

Investigating the Influence of Digital Economy Growth on Industrial Structural Optimization and Upgrading

With the rapid development of the social economy,science and technology continue to upgrade and optimize,ushering in the digital era,which provides technical support for industrial innovation and development across all sectors.At this stage,vigorously developing the digital economy has gradually become the only means to optimize and upgrade the industrial structure.Therefore,local leaders and relevant departments need to enhance the importance of constructing the digital economy,enabling the local industrial structure to be optimized and upgraded under the impetus of the digital economy,ultimately promoting overall economic high-quality development.To this end,this paper,combined with existing research results,first elaborates on the positive impact of the digital economy on the optimization and upgrading of the industrial structure.It then analyzes the challenges hindering the process of industrial structure optimization and upgrading and proposes practical pathways to address them,benefiting relevant stakeholders.

Recent development in structural design and optimization

With the fast development of computational mechanics and the capacity as well as the speed of modern computers,simulation-based structural optimization has become an indispensable tool in the design process of competitive products.This paper presents a brief description of the current status of structural optimization by reviewing some significant progress made in the last decades.Potential research topics are also discussed.The entire literatures of the field are not covered due to the limitation of the length of paper.The scope of this review is limited and closely related to the authors＇ own research interests.

Structural Design Optimization Using Isogeometric Analysis: A Comprehensive Review

Isogeometric analysis(IGA),an approach that integrates CAE into conventional CAD design tools,has been used in structural optimization for 10 years,with plenty of excellent research results.This paper provides a comprehensive review on isogeometric shape and topology optimization,with a brief coverage of size optimization.For isogeometric shape optimization,attention is focused on the parametrization methods,mesh updating schemes and shape sensitivity analyses.Some interesting observations,e.g.the popularity of using direct(differential)method for shape sensitivity analysis and the possibility of developing a large scale,seamlessly integrated analysis-design platform,are discussed in the framework of isogeometric shape optimization.For isogeometric topology optimization(ITO),we discuss different types of ITOs,e.g.ITO using SIMP(Solid Isotropic Material with Penalization)method,ITO using level set method,ITO using moving morphable com-ponents(MMC),ITO with phase field model,etc.,their technical details and applications such as the spline filter,multi-resolution approach,multi-material problems and stress con-strained problems.In addition to the review in the last 10 years,the current developmental trend of isogeometric structural optimization is discussed.

Light-Weight Design Method for Force-Performance-Structure of Complex Structural Part Based Co-operative Optimization

A light?weight design method of integrated structural topology and size co?optimization for the force?performance?structure of complex structural parts is presented in this paper. Firstly, the supporting function of a complex structural part is built to map the force transmission, where the force exerted areas and constraints are considered as connecting structure and the structural configuration, to determine the part performance as well as the force routines. Then the connecting structure design model, aiming to optimize the static and dynamic performances on connection configuration, is developed, and the optimum design of the characteristic parameters is carried out by means of the collaborative optimization method, namely, the integrated structural topology optimization and size optimization. In this design model, the objective is to maximize the connecting stiffness. Based on the relationship between the force and the structural configuration of a part, the optimal force transmission routine that can meet the performance requirements is obtained using the structural topology optimization technology. Accordingly, the light?weight design of conceptual configuration for complex parts under multi?objective and multi?condition can be realized. Finally, based on the proposed collaborative optimization design method, the optimal performance and optimal structure of the complex parts with light weight are realized, and the reasonable structural unit configuration and size charac?teristic parameters are obtained. A bed structure of gantry?type machining center is designed by using the proposed light?weight structure design method in this paper, as an illustrative example. The bed after the design optimization is lighter 8% than original one, and the rail deformation is reduced by 5%. Moreover, the lightweight design of the bed is achieved with enhanced performance to show the effectiveness of the proposed method.

Optimal Structural Design of the Midship of a VLCC Based on the Strategy Integrating SVM and GA

In this paper a hybrid process of modeling and optimization, which integrates a support vector machine （SVM） and genetic algorithm （GA）, was introduced to reduce the high time cost in structural optimization of ships. SVM, which is rooted in statistical learning theory and an approximate implementation of the method of structural risk minimization, can provide a good generalization performance in metamodeling the input-output relationship of real problems and consequently cuts down on high time cost in the analysis of real problems, such as FEM analysis. The GA, as a powerful optimization technique, possesses remarkable advantages for the problems that can hardly be optimized with common gradient-based optimization methods, which makes it suitable for optimizing models built by SVM. Based on the SVM-GA strategy, optimization of structural scantlings in the midship of a very large crude carrier （VLCC） ship was carried out according to the direct strength assessment method in common structural rules （CSR）, which eventually demonstrates the high efficiency of SVM-GA in optimizing the ship structural scantlings under heavy computational complexity. The time cost of this optimization with SVM-GA has been sharply reduced, many more loops have been processed within a small amount of time and the design has been improved remarkably.

Design of Structural Left-handed Material based on Topology Optimization

An effective method to design structural Left-handed material（LHM） was proposed. A commercial finite element software HFSS and S-parameter retrieval method were used to determine the effective constitutive parameters of the metamaterials, and topology optimization technique was introduced to design the microstructure configurations of the materials with desired electromagnetic characteristics. The material considered was a periodic array of dielectric substrates attached with metal film pieces. By controlling the arrangements of the metal film pieces in the design domain, the potential microstructure with desired electromagnetic characteristics can be obtained finally. Two different LHMs were obtained with maximum bandwidth of negative refraction, and the experimental results show that negative refractive indices appear while the metamaterials have simultaneously negative permittivity and negative permeability. Topology optimization technique is found to be an effective tool for configuration design of LHMs.

A strategy for lightweight designing of a railway vehicle car body including composite material and dynamic structural optimization

Rolling stock manufacturers are finding structural solutions to reduce power required by the vehicles,and the lightweight design of the car body represents a possible solution.Optimization processes and innovative materials can be combined in order to achieve this goal.In this framework,we propose the redesign and optimization process of the car body roof for a light rail vehicle,introducing a sandwich structure.Bonded joint was used as a fastening system.The project was carried out on a single car of a modern tram platform.This preliminary numerical work was developed in two main steps:redesign of the car body structure and optimization of the innovated system.Objective of the process was the mass reduction of the whole metallic structure,while the constraint condition was imposed on the first frequency of vibration of the system.The effect of introducing a sandwich panel within the roof assembly was evaluated,focusing on the mechanical and dynamic performances of the whole car body.A mass saving of 63%on the optimized components was achieved,corresponding to a 7.6%if compared to the complete car body shell.In addition,a positive increasing of 17.7%on the first frequency of vibration was observed.Encouraging results have been achieved in terms of weight reduction and mechanical behaviour of the innovated car body.

Optimal design of structural parameters for shield cutterhead based on fuzzy mathematics and multi-objective genetic algorithm

In order to improve the strength and stiffness of shield cutterhead, the method of fuzzy mathematics theory in combination with the finite element analysis is adopted. An optimal design model of structural parameters for shield cutterhead is formulated,based on the complex engineering technical requirements. In the model, as the objective function of the model is a composite function of the strength and stiffness, the response surface method is applied to formulate the approximate function of objective function in order to reduce the solution scale of optimal problem. A multi-objective genetic algorithm is used to solve the cutterhead structure design problem and the change rule of the stress-strain with various structural parameters as well as their optimal values were researched under specific geological conditions. The results show that compared with original cutterhead structure scheme, the obtained optimal scheme of the cutterhead structure can greatly improve the strength and stiffness of the cutterhead, which can be seen from the reduction of its maximum equivalent stress by 21.2%, that of its maximum deformation by 0.75%, and that of its mass by 1.04%.

Substructure design optimization and nonlinear responses control analysis of the mega-sub controlled structural system (MSCSS) under earthquake action

The newly proposed mega sub-controlled structure system(MSCSS)and related studies have drawn the attention of civil engineers for practice in improving the performance and enhancing the structural effectiveness of mega frame structures.However,there is still a need for improvement to its basic structural arrangement.In this project,an advanced,reasonable arrangement of mega sub-controlled structure models,composed of three mega stories with different numbers and arrangements of substructures,are designed to investigate the control performance of the models and obtain the optimal model configuration(model with minimum acceleration and displacement responses)under strong earthquake excitation.In addition,the dynamic parameters that affect the performance effectiveness of the optimal model of MSCSS are studied and discussed.The area of the relative stiffness ratio RD,with different mass ratio MR,within which the acceleration and displacement of the optimal model of MSCSS reaches its optimum(minimum)value is considered as an optimum region.It serves as a useful tool in practical engineering design.The study demonstrates that the proposed MSCSS configuration can efficiently control the displacement and acceleration of high rise buildings.In addition,some analytical guidelines are provided for selecting the control parameters of the structure.

DYNAMIC RESPONSE OPTIMIZATION DESIGN FOR ENGINEERING STRUCTURES BASED ON RELIABILITY

In many practical structures, physical parameters of material and applied loads have random property.To optimize this kind of structures,an optimum mathematical model was built.This model has reliability constraints on dynamic stress and displacement and upper & lower limits of the design variables. The numerical characteristic of dynamic response and sensitivity of dynamic response based on probability of structure were deduced respectively. By equivalent disposing, the reliability constraints were changed into conventional forms. The SUMT method was used in the optimization process.Two examples illustrate the correctness and practicability of the optimum model and solving approach.

Accelerated design of high-performance Mg-Mn-based magnesium alloys based on novel bayesian optimization

Magnesium(Mg),being the lightest structural metal,holds immense potential for widespread applications in various fields.The development of high-performance and cost-effective Mg alloys is crucial to further advancing their commercial utilization.With the rapid advancement of machine learning(ML)technology in recent years,the“data-driven''approach for alloy design has provided new perspectives and opportunities for enhancing the performance of Mg alloys.This paper introduces a novel regression-based Bayesian optimization active learning model(RBOALM)for the development of high-performance Mg-Mn-based wrought alloys.RBOALM employs active learning to automatically explore optimal alloy compositions and process parameters within predefined ranges,facilitating the discovery of superior alloy combinations.This model further integrates pre-established regression models as surrogate functions in Bayesian optimization,significantly enhancing the precision of the design process.Leveraging RBOALM,several new high-performance alloys have been successfully designed and prepared.Notably,after mechanical property testing of the designed alloys,the Mg-2.1Zn-2.0Mn-0.5Sn-0.1Ca alloy demonstrates exceptional mechanical properties,including an ultimate tensile strength of 406 MPa,a yield strength of 287 MPa,and a 23%fracture elongation.Furthermore,the Mg-2.7Mn-0.5Al-0.1Ca alloy exhibits an ultimate tensile strength of 211 MPa,coupled with a remarkable 41%fracture elongation.

Structural Design and Optimization of Comb-type Electric Bicycle Three-dimensional Parking Garage

With the reduction of urban land, the three-dimensional garage is increasingly built with its advantages of saving land. But the current three-dimensional garage is built for the car. It is hardly stereo parking garage for electric bicycles. This paper designed a hollow tower electric bicycle stereo parking garage with fork comb structure, based on the analysis of the characteristics of electric bicycles and the characteristics of existing three-dimensional garages. A fixed comb is mounted on the garage frame. The movable comb is mounted on the middle lift mechanism of the garage. The access of the vehicle is achieved by the exchange of the comb. The key comb structure was modeled using SolidWorks software and the stress distribution of the structure was analyzed. It was optimized by MATLAB software. The result shows that this structure can improve access efficiency. The quality of the comb structure can be minimized under the constraints of strength requirements.

FEA-based structural optimization design of a side cooling collimating mirror at SSRF

Based on finite element analysis of thermal mechanical behavior, structural optimization design was proposed for a side cooling collimating mirror subjected to high heat load for a beamline at SSRF(Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility). The temperature distribution,stress concentration effect, maximum equivalent(vonMises) stress, and slope error of the mirror were analyzed.In particular, the cooling water channels of the traditional structural design were optimized, and the modified designs were further optimized. Although the traditional structural and the improved designs could meet requirements for the temperature and thermal stress, the deformation gradients were relatively large for several structural designs, and this led to larger slope error. The further improved structural designs could be of better performance.