1. Design and optimization of a spherical magnetorheological actuatorJakob Vizjak, Anton Hamler, Marko Jesenik, 2023, original scientific article Abstract: Recently, an increasing number of electromagnetic devices have been using smart fluids. These include ferrofluids, electrorheological fluids, and magnetorheological (MR) fluids. In the paper, magnetorheological fluids are considered for use in a spherical actuator for haptic applications. An approach is presented to the design and optimization of such a device, using finite element method modelling linked with differential evolution (DE). Much consideration was given to the construction of the objective function to be minimized. A novel approach to objective function assembly was used, using reference values based on the model design and created with parameters set to the midpoint values of the selected range. It was found to be a useful strategy when the reference values are unknown. There were four parameters to be optimized. Three of them gravitated towards the boundary value, and the fourth (actuator radius) was somewhere in between. The value of the objective function reached a minimum in the range of actuator radius between 42.9880 mm and 45.0831 mm, which is about a 5% difference in regard to the actuator radius. Three passes of optimization were performed with similar results, proving the robustness of the algorithm.
Keywords: magnetorheological fluid, finite element method, FEM, optimization, differntial evolution, DE, actuator
Published in DKUM: 22.05.2024; Views: 169; Downloads: 10
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4. Numerical analysis of a transtibial prosthesis socket using 3D-Printed Bio-Based PLAVasja Plesec, Jani Humar, Polona Dobnik-Dubrovski, Gregor Harih, 2023, original scientific article Abstract: Lower-limb prosthesis design and manufacturing still rely mostly on the workshop process of trial-and-error using expensive unrecyclable composite materials, resulting in time-consuming, material-wasting, and, ultimately, expensive prostheses. Therefore, we investigated the possibility of utilizing Fused Deposition Modeling 3D-printing technology with inexpensive bio-based and bio-degradable Polylactic Acid (PLA) material for prosthesis socket development and manufacturing. The safety and stability of the proposed 3D-printed PLA socket were analyzed using a recently developed generic transtibial numeric model, with boundary conditions of donning and newly developed realistic gait cycle phases of a heel strike and forefoot loading according to ISO 10328. The material properties of the 3D-printed PLA were determined using uniaxial tensile and compression tests on transverse and longitudinal samples. Numerical simulations with all boundary conditions were performed for the 3D-printed PLA and traditional polystyrene check and definitive composite socket. The results showed that the 3D-printed PLA socket withstands the occurring von-Mises stresses of 5.4 MPa and 10.8 MPa under heel strike and push-off gait conditions, respectively. Furthermore, the maximum deformations observed in the 3D-printed PLA socket of 0.74 mm and 2.66 mm were similar to the check socket deformations of 0.67 mm and 2.52 mm during heel strike and push-off, respectively, hence providing the same stability for the amputees. We have shown that an inexpensive, bio-based, and bio-degradable PLA material can be considered for manufacturing the lower-limb prosthesis, resulting in an environmentally friendly and inexpensive solution.
Keywords: 3D printing, bio-based, polylactic acid, PLA, prosthesis, prosthesis socket, numerical model, finite element method
Published in DKUM: 14.03.2024; Views: 202; Downloads: 25
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5. Introduction to the Computer Simulations : ScriptNejc Novak, Matej Borovinšek, Matej Vesenjak, Zoran Ren, 2024 Abstract: The script entitled „Introduction to the computer simulations“ in the field of Engineering Computer Simulations is intended as a study aid in the lectures of the courses Engineering Computer Simulations for foreign students at the University of Maribor and for students at Kumamoto University, Japan. It explains all the material that students must master in these subjects, and is consistent with the subject curriculum. The basics of computational simulations, based on the Finite Element Method, are given from the theoretical basics to step-by-step preparation of simple computational models and their analysis in PrePoMax software.
Keywords: computational simulations, solid mechanics, Finite Element Method, designing, numerical methods
Published in DKUM: 12.03.2024; Views: 411; Downloads: 29
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7. An alternative method of increasing the transmission performance of a conventional 110 kV cable lineDardan Klimenta, Dragan Tasić, Miroljub S. Jevtić, 2019, professional article Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to show that a significant increase in the ampacity of a 110 kV underground cable line is achievable, if a hydronic asphalt pavement system is applied along the entire line, and if the cable trench is completely filled with high thermal conductivity bedding in order to improve the conduction of heat between the line and the surface of the earth. In such a way, it would be possible to simultaneously collect and then store heat from the sun and cable line. The mutual thermal effects between the 110 kV cable line and the hydronic asphalt pavement, in the presence of solar radiation, wind-driven convection and heat emission along the earth surface, are simulated using FEM-based models for the most unfavourable summer conditions and the most common winter conditions. An adequate experimental background is also provided based on the existing measurements relevant to the thermal analysis performed. It was found that, compared to the associated base cases, the cable ampacity can be increased up to 92.3% for the most unfavourable summer conditions, and up to 60.3% for the most common winter conditions.
Keywords: ampacity, finite-element method, hydronic asphalt pavement, power cable, thermal analysis
Published in DKUM: 05.12.2023; Views: 358; Downloads: 5
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8. Development of mathematical models in explicit form for design and analysis of axial flux permanent magnet synchronous machinesFranjo Pranjić, Peter Virtič, 2020, original scientific article Abstract: This article proposes a methodology for the design of double-sided coreless axial flux permanent magnet synchronous machines, which is based on a developed model for calculating the axial component of the magnetic flux density in the middle of the distance between opposite permanent magnets, which also represents the middle of the stator. Values for different geometric parameters represent the input data for the mathematical model in explicit form. The input data are calculated by using a simplified finite element method (FEM), which means that calculations of simplified 3D models are performed. The simplified model consists of two rotor disks with surfacemounted permanent magnets and air between them, instead of stator windings. Such a simplification is possible due to similar values of permeability of the air and copper. For each simplified model of the machine the axial component of the magnetic flux density is analyzed along a line passing through the center of opposite permanent magnets and both rotor disks. Values at the middle of the distance between the opposite permanent magnets are the lowest and are therefore selected for the input data at different stator, rotor disks and permanent magnets (PM) thicknesses. Such input data enable the model to consider the nonlinearity of materials.
Keywords: axial flux, analysis, coreless, development, design, explicit form, finite element method, mathematical models, permanent magnet, synchronous
Published in DKUM: 01.12.2023; Views: 491; Downloads: 15
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9. Computer modelling of the residual limb for the development of prosthetic sockets and liners with the cellular structure : doctoral disertationVasja Plesec, 2023, doctoral dissertation Abstract: The production of lower limb prostheses continues to rely primarily on manual methods, which are outdated and characterized by labour-intensive processes, lengthy time requirements, high costs, and a heavy reliance on the expertise of prosthetists. Achieving a satisfactory fit between the residual limb and socket remains a challenge, often leading to discomfort, pain, and potential wearer tissue damage. However, advancements in computer technology and numerical simulation offer an opportunity to predict stresses and strains experienced by the residual limb during prosthesis usage. This, in turn, aids in the development process by enhancing the design of the prosthetic socket and liner through virtual environments. In this dissertation we developed a generic numerical transtibial model to bridge the gap between clinical practice and numerical simulations. Biomechanically validated, this model generates outcomes applicable to a broader amputee population, facilitating comparative analysis of socket and liner designs and materials under different loading conditions. Furthermore, the dissertation explores the utilization of a 3D-printed socket manufactured through the cost-effective fused filament fabrication process, using polylactic acid filament, aiming to reduce the costs and establish a streamlined production process. The 3D-printed socket was evaluated within the virtual environment using the developed transtibial model. The numerical findings indicate that the 3D-printed socket can effectively withstand the loads encountered during the stages of prosthesis donning, single-leg stance, heel strike, and push-off, thereby presenting a viable alternative to the prevalent composite socket. Additionally, a cellular structure composed of a flexible thermoplastic elastomeric material is proposed as a prosthetic liner to enhance comfort by reducing contact pressure while maintaining the required stability. Numerical results indicate that by manipulating cellular parameters such as unit cell type and relative density of the structure, a customized response can be achieved. This customized response effectively reduces contact pressure for a given scenario without increasing displacement, thereby improving comfort while maintaining stability.
Keywords: lower-limb prosthesis, generic numerical transtibial model, 3D-printed socket, cellular structure liner, finite element method
Published in DKUM: 14.11.2023; Views: 693; Downloads: 47
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10. Designing an electromechanical generator for energy harvestingFranjo Pranjić, Nejc Smolar, Peter Virtič, 2021, original scientific article Abstract: Five different designs of tubular electromechanical generator for low frequency energy harvesting have been investigated in this paper. In order to design a simple and robust generator, models were constructed out of permanent magnets, steel and windings. In all five generator models, round movers were used in spherical and cylindrical form- for four models solely permanent magnets were used, and in one model, there was steel present in the mover. The movers are slid or rolled through a tube, and induce voltage in the stator winding. All windings were constructed with the same cross- -section dimensions and number of turns. To compare different models, 3D analysis with the Finite Element Method was performed, in order to determine the magnetic flux through the windings. The induced voltage was calculated using the results of the analysis. As a result of the different winding geometries, the average turn length varied for the different designs, subsequently altering resistance and inductance, which affected the generator`s power output and losses. To simulate the generator`s dynamics, an equivalent circuit model was constructed using the Simulink software and data obtained previously from a 3D electromagnetic analysis. With the Simulink model, we coupled the mechanical and electrical systems together to acquire the harvester yields.
Keywords: energy harvest, linear generator, permanent magnets, Finite Element Method
Published in DKUM: 13.11.2023; Views: 302; Downloads: 5
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