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Abstract: A new approach using a horizontally layered analytical soil model for inhomogeneous soil is presented. The presented approach also considers deeper soil layers, which is not the case when simply dividing the area of interest into smaller subareas. The finite element method model was used to prepare test data because, in such a case, the soil parameters are known. Six lines simulating Wenner’s method were used, and their results were combined appropriately to determine the soil parameters of nine subareas. To determine the soil parameters in the scope of each subarea, different optimization methods were used and compared to each other. The results were analyzed, and Artificial Bee Colony was selected as the most appropriate method among those tested. Additionally, the convergence of the methods was analyzed, and Memory Assistance is presented, with the aim of shortening the calculation time. In this study, three-, four-, five-, and six-layered soil models were tested, and it is concluded that the three-layered model is most appropriate. A finite element method model based on the soil determination results was constructed to verify the results. The results of the Wenner’s method simulation in the cases of the test data and final model were compared to confirm the accuracy of the presented method
Keywords: grounding system, soil model, finite element method, differential evolution, artificial bee colony, teaching–learning-based optimization
Published in DKUM: 21.02.2025; Views: 0; Downloads: 3
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Keywords: Chaboche material model, parameter optimization, genetic algorithm, finite element method
Published in DKUM: 04.04.2024; Views: 168; Downloads: 27
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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: 208; Downloads: 42
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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: 696; Downloads: 61
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Abstract: The basis of the master thesis is an in-depth and comprehensive analysis of the scientific literature on damage models of thermo-mechanical fatigue. The aim of the thesis is to investigate and determine the suitability of damage models for their application in numerical simulations of components subjected to thermo-mechanical loading with in-phase, out-of-phase or constant temperature cycles. The theoretical background of material behavior under static and dynamic loads (e.g. low-cycle fatigue, high-cycle fatigue) is presented. The work also includes an overview of damage mechanisms typical of time-temperature varying loading conditions (e.g. cyclic softening and hardening of the material, mean stress relaxation, material creep, visco-plasticity, etc.). This is followed by a structured review of several damage models of thermo-mechanical fatigue (e.g. Neu-Sehitoglu, DTMF, Coffin-Manson, Ostergren, Smith-Watson-Topper, Unified Energy Approach, etc.). An overview of the experimental tests on aluminum alloy and cast iron carried out at temperatures up to 800 °C is given. The idea of processing the raw experimental data including the calibration procedure of the thermo-mechanical fatigue damage models is schematically illustrated and described. The basic mathematical laws of constitutive material models for both material types are given. In the conclusion of the MSc thesis, the correlations of the calibrated damage models are presented, which, together with the constructive opinions, give an important message on the application of the individual damage models depending on the type of material and the loading method.
Keywords: thermo-mechanical fatigue, constitutive material model, damage model, aluminum alloy, cast iron alloy, finite element method
Published in DKUM: 03.01.2022; Views: 1038; Downloads: 10
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