This study deals with the structural integrity of a co-axial octocopter cargo drone. Most unstable states in progress of various flight missions of the cargo drone are considered to be derived from take-off and landing operations. In order to evaluate the structural integrity of these states, three-dimensional FE (finite element) simulation using whole frame assembled with structural members and components is performed, and then the effective stress level and deflection degree are investigated. Also, topology optimization is adopted to improve the locally concentrated stress and large deflection around front and rear sections of the motor-support side member. From topology optimization, it is ensured that the shape and location of plate support have to be modified for improving the stress level and the deflection degree. Based on the optimized and modified feature, FE simulation is re-performed. Consequently, it is confirmed that the effective stress and the deflection are reduced to about 26.67% and 19.15% around the side member, respectively.
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Utilization of topology optimization and generative design for drone frame optimization Michał Kowalik, Michał Śliwiński, Mateusz Papis Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology.2025; 97(7): 813. CrossRef
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With advancements in the 3D printing technology, many industrial sectors are transitioning from traditional production methods, such as cutting processing, and casting, to utilizing 3D printers for manufacturing. For instance, in the automotive industry, the production of vehicle upright knuckle parts typically involves casting followed by machining processes, such as turning and milling, to achieve dimensional accuracy. However, this approach is associated with high processing costs and longer lead times. This study focuses on the production of vehicle upright knuckle parts using a selective laser melting (SLM)-type 3D printer, with SUS 630 as the material. To evaluate the feasibility of utilizing this method in industrial vehicles, this study conducts static and modal analyses, along with topology optimization. Additionally, experimental test drives are performed with the parts installed in KSAE BAJA vehicles, and modal frequency experiments are conducted. The objective of these analyses and experiments is to assess the performance, reliability, and applicability of utilizing SLM-based 3D printing for manufacturing vehicle upright knuckle parts by optimizing the design through topology optimization and evaluating the results through experiments and analysis.
The sanding device support bracket is part of the axle box and is one of the railway vehicles parts that must withstand extremely harsh environments. Conventional welded structure type brackets were cracked at welds during operation, requiring design changes. To minimize harsh environments and manufacturing errors, this review was conducted from the design stage, and design changes were made through several trial and error. In this paper, the optimal design was derived by performing topology optimization on the model designed and manufactured through trial and error and applied to the actual vehicle. The comparison of the existing model with the empirically designed model confirmed the improvement of the optimal design using the topology optimization. The optimized design was verified by the analysis and the vibration test of IEC 61373 was satisfied. The test parts based on the optimal design were applied to the actual vehicle and the performance was verified. In the optimum design process, the shape and material as well as the weight analysis were performed and finally the brackets were designed to be light in weight and improved in strength.
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Experimental study on the influencing factors of particles jetting behavior in train sanding adhesion enhancement Z.H. Yue, S.Y. Zhang, H.H. Ding, X.X. Song, Q. Lin, J. Guo, W.J. Wang Powder Technology.2024; 448: 120302. CrossRef
Study on the Optimal Design of Column Rib Structure of Horizontal Machine Tool Using Topology Optimization Technique Ji-Sang Hwang, Sung-Jae Kim, Chul-Hoon Sung Journal of the Korean Society of Manufacturing Technology Engineers.2023; 32(1): 1. CrossRef
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This study reviews the assumption that the lightweight design of commercial vehicles is significant from the aspect of the anticipated fuel consumption and environmental regulations that are consequently applicable to those vehicles. Generally speaking, it is noted that among the numerous trailer components, a stub axle, which is designed to independently operate as an integral part of trailer’s suspension, can play an important role in increasing the shipping capacity of a box trailer. For this reason, because each stub axle is comparatively a heavy unit in itself, and a total of six stub axles are mounted in a box trailer, the lightweight design of a stub-axle is noted as an essential factor to reduce the whole weight of a trailer. For a finite element analysis, an original CAD model is modified through removing a chamber, airbag, axle drum, bearing and pivot on a vehicle. In addition, the loading conditions are imposed considering three extreme driving conditions and the effects are studied when in the event of review of a fully loaded in a box trailer. A topology optimization is conducted to determine a lightweight design for minimizing compliance under these boundary conditions.
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Toward structure optimization for the mobile vehicle system based on multiconstraints Xin Zhao, Jie Li, Shunli Sun, Chongyang Han, Wenbo Zhu, Zhaokai He, Luxin Tang, Weibin Wu, Jiehao Li Robotic Intelligence and Automation.2023; 43(1): 75. CrossRef
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