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The influence of nonuniform aging has not been considered in the prediction of the frequency domain spectroscopy (FDS) of the transformer oil-paper insulation (OPI) when using the finite element method (FEM). Given this issue, the modified simulation model was constructed based on the XY model and FEM. In the current work, the dielectric response property of the pressboards with different aging conditions in the modified model was characterized by its dielectric response parameters measured in the lab. Then the modified simulation model constructed in a 3-D system would be applied to study the effect of both nonuniform aging and the axial geometry on the FDS of OPI. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed models was verified by comparing the measured FDS and the predicted FDS. This article is expected to provide a model for predicting the FDS of the transformer OPI including the effect of nonuniform aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to solve the deficiencies of traditional board-level assembly CubeSat, such as low modularity, complex assembly process and poor scalability, a sandwich module assembly structure and method with no drive components is proposed, which can achieve quick connection and flexible assembly between modules. First, the proposed CubeSat standard module can be compatible with the standard interface of traditional CubeSat. The 4-in-1 interface of Mechanical-Electrical-Thermal-Data does not occupy the internal space of the standard module, and the electrical and thermal interfaces meet the requirements of CubeSat in-orbit work. Secondly, in order to improve the reliability of the connection between the modules, a plug-in connection scheme of the mechanical interface was designed. Finally, a genetic algorithm was used to optimize the interface size, so that it has better plug-in performance. The simulation results show that the performance of the male interface of titanium alloy material is the best, and the error between the finite element analysis and genetic algorithm results is less than 4.8 %, which is consistent with the actual tensile test results of the optimized prototype, and meets the mechanical requirements of the launch process and space orbit operation for CubeSat. The test results can guide production and provide a reference for subsequent engineering applications of CubeSat modular assembly. • In this paper, a standardized modular assembly method of CubeSat sandwich structure is designed. The assembly structure does not include driving parts, is simple in form, can be quickly connected, is flexible in assembly mode, and does not occupy the internal space of the standard module. • A standard 4-in-1 connection device was designed in this paper, including four interfaces: mechanical, electrical, thermal and data, which can achieve "plug and play". • This paper uses genetic algorithm to optimize the structure of the mechanical connection male joint, and obtains the optimal configuration of the male joint. This ensures the reliability, firmness and stability of mechanical connections, and meets the mechanical requirements of CubeSats during launch and in orbit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis, electromagnetic evaluation, and prototyping of a novel motor structure called the sinusoidal rotor switched reluctance motor. In this innovative design, a significant departure from the conventional switched reluctance motor is observed, as modifications are made to the rotor with the goal of reduction torque ripple and radial force characteristics. Importantly, despite these advancements, the proposed motor retains the weight and volume characteristics of the traditional, type. The key attributes of these motors have been thoroughly assessed using the three‐dimensional finite element method, complemented by a sensitivity analysis aimed at identifying the most optimal configuration within the proposed design. The findings reveal that the suggested structure successfully achieves a notable reduction in torque ripple and radial force when compared to the traditional counterpart, albeit with an expected reduction in average torque. These features render the new topology particularly well‐suited for applications that prioritise noise and vibration reduction. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the proposed topology is corroborated through experimental tests, providing empirical evidence of its advantages and potential for practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminum honeycomb sandwich structure with panels made of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) are widely used in aerospace and other fields. Simulation of the eddy current (EC) testing of the sandwich structure using the finite element (FE) method is challenging as the traditional FE method has difficulties in mesh division and the solution of the algebraic equations. This paper proposes to use the domain decomposition FE method to solve such problems. The top CFRP panel, the aluminum honeycomb core, and the bottom CFRP panel of the sandwich structure and the ferrite core of the coil are placed in different subdomains and the subdomains are meshed independently. This method simplifies the mesh generation and does not require regenerating the meshes when simulating the scanning testing with the ferrite-core coil. In this way, the efficiency of simulation is greatly improved. The EC distributions in the sandwich structure are computed and the influence of defect on EC distribution is analyzed. The C scans of the sandwich structures are simulated. The images of the EC responses to the defects, such as wall fracture, node disconnection, and core wrinkle, are obtained. The simulation results are validated by experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a design scheme for a wireless power transfer (WPT) system based on multi-relay coils to solve the power supply demand of 500 kV transmission line online monitoring equipment. The relationship between the operating frequency and the coil loss is established to analyze the influence of the number of relay coils and the coil distance on the transmission performance. The particle swarm optimization model is established with transmission efficiency as the optimization objective. The distribution spacing between coils, the working frequency, and the number of coils are optimized. Based on the equidistant arrangement of relay coils, an optimization scheme of non-equidistant arrangement is proposed. Under the condition of the same number of relay coils, the transmission efficiency of the system is increased by 20.56% and has been verified by experiments. In addition, finite element analysis software has simulated the surrounding high-voltage field strength of the WPT system added to the insulators. The results show that the insulators still meet the insulation standards. The simulation and experimental results show that the proposed scheme can effectively meet the power demand of high-voltage line monitoring equipment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An SHS-CFSHS X-joint is fabricated by welding two square hollow section (SHS) braces to a concrete-filled square hollow section (CFSHS) chord. In this paper, the stress concentration factors (SCFs) of SHS-CFSHS X-joints are investigated through experimental tests and finite element analysis (FEA), with the hot spot stress method serving as the analytical approach. Eight specimens are designed and manufactured, with FE models built in software ANSYS. These FE models are validated against the test results. The specimens are tested under brace axial tension to determine the SCFs of the X-joints. It shows that the concrete filled in the chord effectively reduces the SCFs of the X-joints. To further explore various load conditions and the influence of the parameters, FEA is carried out and a total of 64 FE models are built. Based on the FEA results, multiple regression analysis is used to obtain the SCF formulae of SHS-CFSHS X-joints under axial tension load and in-plane bending load in the brace, respectively. Comparison and analysis of the SCF results obtained from experimental tests, the proposed formulae, and FE simulations reveal that the formulae presented in this study are both conservative and suitable for predicting SCFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces a unique finite element analysis (FEA) technique designed to predict elastic response in polymer matrix composites (PMCs). Extensive research has been conducted to model the manufacturing process of multiple 'L'-shaped components, fabricated from SPRINTTM materials (GLP 43 and GLP 96) at two thicknesses (15 mm and 25 mm). Three distinct FEA methodologies were utilised to determine the impact of thermal loads and rigid fixtures. An error deviation of 3.23% was recorded when comparing simulation results to experimental data, thereby validating the effectiveness of the FEA methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the infusion process of a glass-fiber-reinforced thermosetting composite hose, the viscosity of its resin matrix undergoes temporal variations. Consequently, if the impact of resin viscosity changes over time on the internal resin fluidity is not considered during the infusion process, this may result in the incomplete impregnation of the hose, characterized by the presence of numerous voids. This phenomenon adversely affects the quality of the pipe's curing and forming process. Therefore, based on the characteristic variations in resin viscosity, this paper considers the changes in fluidity caused by the resin's temporal evolution within the material. We establish a finite element simulation model to calculate and analyze the overall infusion effects of resin viscosity changes during the hose infusion process. Furthermore, based on the predicted analysis, a variable parameter infusion strategy is proposed to increase resin impregnation in the hose, thereby reducing internal void content and subsequently improving the quality of material curing and forming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wind turbines (WT) are a clean renewable energy source that have gained popularity in recent years. Gearboxes are complex, expensive, and critical components of WT, which are subject to high maintenance costs and several stresses, including high loads and harsh environments, that can lead to failure with significant downtime and financial losses. This paper focuses on the development of a digital twin-based approach for the modelling and simulation of WT gearboxes with the aim to improve their design, diagnosis, operation, and maintenance by providing insights into their behavior under different operating conditions. Powerful commercial computer-aided design tools (CAD) and computer-aided engineering (CAE) software are embedded into a computationally efficient multi-objective optimization framework (modeFrontier) with the purpose of maximizing the power density, compactness, performance, and reliability of the WT gearbox. High-fidelity models are used to minimize the WT weight, volume, and maximum stresses and strains achieved without compromising its efficiency. The 3D CAD model of the WT gearbox is carried out using SolidWorks (version 2023 SP5.0), the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is used to obtain the stresses and strains, fields are modelled using Ansys Workbench (version 2024R1), while the multibody kinematic and dynamic system is analyzed using Adams Machinery (version 2023.3, Hexagon). The method has been successfully applied to different case studies to find the optimal design and analyze the performance of the WT gearboxes. The simulation results can be used to determine safety factors, predict fatigue life, identify potential failure modes, and extend service life and reliability, thereby ensuring proper operation over its lifetime and reducing maintenance costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, in some domestic and foreign mines, the backfill drilling pipeline experiences a rupture phenomenon even when the wear degree is low. This results in a delay in production due to the filling becoming 'sick'. This paper presents, for the first time, the damage mechanism from a mechanical perspective and re-derives the anti-extrusion strength model of the backfill drilling pipeline. We investigate the influence of the law on the anti-extrusion strength of pipelines from the perspective of strata and cement rings. We then verify the theoretical and simulation results through engineering examples. The results demonstrate that the Mises stress criterion is a suitable modification principle for the anti-extrusion strength model of the backfill drilling pipeline. The anti-extrusion strength of the pipeline is related to the elastic modulus and Poisson's ratio of the stratum, and the thickness of the cement ring. It is negatively affected by the depth of the stratum. For hard strata, a cement ring with a smaller elastic modulus is suitable, while for soft stratum, a cement ring with a larger elastic modulus is recommended. When the missing angle of the cement ring is less than 60°, the stress concentration factor increases up to 2.2. The stress unloading capacity of the cement ring ranges from 32.7% to 37.8%, and optimal performance of the cement ring is achieved when it has high strength and low rigidity. The backfill filling pipeline of a copper mine abroad was destroyed due to external extrusion force exceeding its anti-extrusion strength value. The modified pipeline anti-extrusion strength model is 18.2% higher than the pipeline API strength value. This finding can inform the design of the backfill filling pipeline for China's kilometer-deep wells in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a simple yet accurate finite element (FE) formulation for the thermomechanical analysis of laminated composites and sandwich plates. To this end, an enhanced first-order shear deformation theory including the transverse normal effect based on the mixed variational theorem (EFSDTM_TN) was employed in the FE implementation. The primary objective of the FE formulation was to systematically interconnect the displacement and transverse stress fields using the mixed variational theorem (MVT). In the MVT, the transverse stress field is derived from the efficient higher-order plate theory including the transverse normal effect (EHOPT_TN), to enhance the solution accuracy, whereas the displacement field is defined by the first-order shear deformation theory including the transverse normal effect (FSDT_TN), to amplify the numerical efficiency. Furthermore, the transverse displacement field is modified by incorporating the components of the external temperature loading, enabling the consideration of the transverse normal strain effect without introducing additional unknown variables. Based on the predefined relationships, the proposed FE formulation can extract the C0-based computational benefits of FSDT_TN, while improving the solution accuracy for thermomechanical analysis. The numerical performance of the proposed FE formulation was demonstrated by comparing the obtained solutions with those available in the literature, including 3-D exact solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lifting is to use lifting equipment to lift components and install them to the designated position. On the main structure, lifting equipment is used to transport the flue and transport the sectional flue to the designated position. Certain deformation will occur during the lifting operation of the flue due to its force condition, but it is not known whether it is elastic deformation or plastic deformation. Therefore, this paper analyzes the stress and strain of the flue during operation by finite element method, and observes and analyzes the influence of plastic deformation on the whole flue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estimating losses accurately for magnetic materials in power conversion circuits is a challenging task. Solving the partial differential equations in a complex geometry of inductive components such as filter-integrated transformers is an additional prominent challenge. While there are some commercially available finite element simulation tools that provide loss calculations in time-domain for multi-dimensional geometries of magnetic materials, the principle of analysis is not fully disclosed and less flexible for engineers to use. In this paper, we introduce a comprehensive method for systematically and flexibly applying time-domain dynamic loss equations to geometric finite element methods in multi-dimensions. The developed post-process framework for magnetic core loss calculations is coded in an open-source programming language, Python, and verified by comparison with analytical solutions for a filter integrated isolation transformer under a variety of operating conditions. Parallel processing is used to deal with the large datasets associated with element-by-element numerical calculations in the time domain. A high level of accuracy is achieved and verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a new cost-effective magnetic circuit structure of a coreless permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) with 16 poles and 12 coils for a mass production fan drive unit. 2D and 3D numerical models of the coreless PMSM were developed. Optimisation calculations were carried out using the field model of the machine. Multistage calculations were performed using the professional FEM package, ANSYS Maxwell and the author's proprietary finite element method (FEM) code. On the basis of the conducted tests and analysis of the obtained results, the "optimal" magnetic circuit structure of the PMSM motor was selected. The prototype motor was subjected to measurement to verify the developed models and the proposed design approach that takes advantage of finite element analysis (FEA). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes an analytical model of the double-stator spoke-type permanent magnet vernier machine (DSSTVM) using the subdomain method (SDM), which can be used to calculate the magnetic field distribution and corresponding electromagnetic parameters of the DSSTVM. The whole field domain is divided into several subdomains according to the magnetic characteristics of each region, within which Laplace's and Poisson's equations are solved accordingly in terms of magnetic vector potential (MVP). Then, the corresponding magnetic flux density distribution, back electromotive force (EMF), and electromagnetic torque of the DSSTVM can be obtained. Ultimately, finite element analysis (FEA) is adopted to validate the proposed analytical model's effectiveness for quickly predicting the no-load and on-load performances of the DSSTVM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with the problem of stress concentration at the weld toe of non-load-carrying-type plate cruciform joints under tension, bending, and shear. Theoretical stress concentration factors were derived using the finite element method. Five of the most important geometrical parameters: the thickness of the main plate and the attachments, the weld throat thickness, the weld toe radius, and the weld face inclination angle were treated as independent variables. For each loading mode—tension, bending, and shear—parametric expression of high accuracy was obtained, covering the range used in real structures for cruciform connections. The maximum percentage error was lower than 2.5% as compared to numerical values. The presented solutions proved to be valid for the toe radius ρ tending to zero. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent construction of an underground mass rapid transit (MRT) station in Singapore involved 21 m deep excavations within underconsolidated marine clay. The lateral earth support system comprised 1 m thick diaphragm walls socketed into the underlying Old Alluvium and 4 levels of preloaded cross-lot struts. Deep soil mixing (DSM) and jet grouting piles (JGP) were used to improve up to 15 m thickness of the marine clay formation. Field monitoring data showed that these ground improvement processes caused large outward deflections of the diaphragm wall panels at some locations prior to the excavation and may have caused yielding within the wall panels. In this paper, the impacts of these prior wall deformations on the subsequent performance of the excavation support system are investigated. The measured performance at two indicative cross sections is compared with results from simplified 2D finite element analyses. The analyses simulate the effects of ground improvement through prescribed boundary pressures and represent the yielding of the diaphragm wall panels through zones of reduced bending stiffness. We show that large outward wall deflections and curvature observed during jet grouting at one section contribute to higher inward wall movements and strut loads measured during excavation, while smaller movements (and curvature) prior to excavation at a second similar cross section cause negligible change in the performance of the temporary earth retaining system. The results highlight (1) the importance of controlling ground movements associated with ground modification processes such as jet grouting, (2) the uncertainties in estimating mechanical properties for the improved soil mass, and (3) the need to improve the representation of non-linear, flexural properties (M-κ) of reinforced concrete diaphragm panels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Part of power transformers failures are result of great electromagnetic forces acting on its windings due the circulation of high currents, as in case of short circuits. To contribute for a more reliable mechanical design, this paper presents a finite element analysis (FEA) for a complete calculation and evaluation of electromagnetic forces on transformers windings. Three arrangements of concentric windings are analyzed considering three-phase and three-dimensional models, dealing with issues as the influence of magnetic core window and lateral phases presence, ensuring more accurate results. The adopted modeling allows to determinate the total axial and radial forces on all the phases and its distribution over the height of windings and around the core leg. It was possible to identify points of greater and lesser forces and the behavior of forces on different constructive arrangements, allowing its choice improvement during the design stage. The results present good agreement to the analytical method, allowing the application of the developed FEA for transformer design optimization, contributing for a time and costs reduction and avoiding future mistakes in its construction and failures during its operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to further investigate the grouped stud effect on the force properties of stud connectors, based on the premise that the correctness of the finite element simulation method, in this paper, a finite element model of grouped stud connectors was developed, and the grouped stud effect and its sensitivity factors were analyzed in order to validate the recommended formula for calculating the shear capacity of grouped stud connectors. Results show that the number of grouped stud rows and stud row spacing have a significant influence on the grouped stud effect, and the unevenness coefficient of grouped stud force is negatively correlated with the number of grouped stud rows as well as the grouped stud row spacing. Grouped stud connectors with commonly used concrete grades greater than C50 and height-to-diameter ratios of greater than 4 in steel–concrete composite structural bridges are insensitive to changes in the concrete strength grades and the length of the studs. The direction of force transmission for grouped stud changes with the change in loading angle and the unevenness coefficient of force for the grouped stud will therefore be reduced. By comparing the results of the 62 existing groups of grouped stud connectors push-out tests, the mean of the tested to calculated value ratio was found to be 1.12, the variance was 0.023, the dispersion was small, and it was shown that the recommended formula has a high degree of accuracy. The results of this paper can be used as a theoretical basis for the study of the shear stress performance of grouped stud connectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In laboratory practice, several standards for testing the bending stiffness of corrugated board are used. There are often cases of tests where the results depend on the way the sample is placed on the supports. The problem arises when the board is five-ply (with two corrugated layers with different corrugation heights) or when the board has asymmetrically selected papers on the flat layers. This article focuses on the problem related to boundary conditions, with particular attention to the local effects of the support of the sample. Because the cardboard layers, both flat and corrugated, have a small thickness, a slight deformation of the papers can always be observed at the point of contact between the sample and the support, which affects the readings of the measured stiffness. The paper presents theoretical and numerical analyses showing how much the method of supporting the sample affects the measured bending stiffness of various samples. Numerical observations were compared with the results of analyses presented by other scientists as well as with experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After manufacturing, fiber-reinforced polymer composite laminates may have residual stresses, resulting in warpage in flat structures and angle changes in angular sections. These shape distortions may cause fitting mismatch problems under high-level assembly, and extra efforts to fix these problems may be needed. The present paper only makes an overview of the angle deviation of angular composite laminates made of either thermoset matrix with autoclave curing or thermoplastic matrix with thermoforming. Depending on the positive or negative angle deviation, spring-back or spring-in behavior is observed. There are many parameters, including intrinsic and extrinsic parameters, that could affect the angle deviation. In the first part of this review paper, experimental results concerning the effects of the part angle, part thickness, lay-up sequence, corner angle, flange size, tool material, tool surface, and cure cycle are summarized. Spring-in angles are generally obtained in this part. In the second part, several prediction methods, such as simple equations and finite element methods, are compared to indicate the considered parameters. Some have good agreement and some have larger errors. The crucial differences may be dependent on the micromechanical theories and the input properties of the composite and the constituents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the mixed mode I/II stress intensity factors (SIFs) of slanted cracks/notches under tension loading. A two‐dimensional finite element analysis (FEA) was employed using the ABAQUS program. Based on the literature survey, there is a lack of solutions for SIFs of slanted cracks in plane stress plates. The strain energy approach (SEA) was adopted to analyze the notched cases. Mode I and II SIFs are derived via the SEA method from the strain energy computed using the FEA technique. The results show excellent agreement with other researchers' work. The key contribution of the present paper is the presentation of the effect of the crack/notch length to plate width ratio on the mode I and II SIFs of a slant‐edge‐cracked/notched plate under different boundary conditions. Sets of new data of mode I and II SIFs are provided herein in tabular and graphical formats. Highlights: Stress intensity factors (SIFs) of single edge‐cracked/notched plates under mode I/II loading computed.Parametric and comparative analysis of SIFs of pinned/clamped boundary conditions (BCs).SIFs derived from finite element analysis (FEA) computed elemental energies by strain energy approach.Effects of pinned and clamped BCs on mode I/II SIFs of cracked/notched plates shown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon fibres used as a honeycomb core material (subject to a proper in-depth analysis of their reinforcement patterns) allows solving the thermo-dimensional stability problem of the units for space systems. Based on the results of numerical simulations with the support of finite element analysis, the paper provides an evaluation of the accuracy of analytical dependencies for the determination of the moduli of elasticity of a carbon fibre honeycomb core in tension/compression and shear. It is shown that a carbon fibre honeycomb reinforcement pattern has a significant impact on the mechanical performance of the carbon fibre honeycomb core. For example, for honeycombs measuring 10 mm in height, the maximum shear modulus values corresponding to the reinforcement pattern of ±45° exceed the minimum values for a reinforcement pattern of 0° and 90° by more than 5 times in the XOZ plane and 4 times for the shear modulus in the YOZ plane. The maximum modulus of the elasticity of the honeycomb core in the transverse tension, corresponding to a reinforcement pattern of ±75°, exceeds the minimum modulus for the reinforcement pattern of ±15° more than 3 times. We observe a decrease in the values of the mechanical performance of the carbon fibre honeycomb core depending on its height. With a honeycomb reinforcement pattern of ±45°, the decrease in the shear modulus is 10% in the XOZ plane and 15% in the YOZ plane. The reduction in the modulus of elasticity in the transverse tension for the reinforcement pattern does not exceed 5%. It is shown that in order to ensure high-level moduli of elasticity with respect to tension/compression and shear at the same time, it is necessary to focus on a reinforcement pattern of ±64°. The paper covers the development of the experimental prototype technology that produces carbon fibre honeycomb cores and structures for aerospace applications. It is shown by experiments that the use of a larger number of thin layers of unidirectional carbon fibres provides more than a 2-time reduction in honeycomb density while maintaining high values of strength and stiffness. Our findings can permit a significant expansion of the area of application relative to this class of honeycomb cores in aerospace engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a new anisotropic visco-hyperelastic constitutive model for finite bending of an incompressible rectangular elastomeric material. The proposed approach is based on the Mooney–Rivlin anisotropic strain energy function and non-linear visco-hyperelastic method. In this study, we aim to examine the mechanical response of a reinforced viscoelastic rectangular bar with a group of fibers under bending. Anisotropic materials are typically composed of one (or more) family of reinforcing fibers embedded within a soft matrix material. This operation may lead to an enhancement in the strength and stiffness of soft materials. In addition, a finite element simulation is carried out to validate the accuracy of the analytical solution. In this research, the well-known stress relaxation test, as well as the multi-step relaxation test, are examined both analytically and numerically. The results obtained from the analytical solution are found to be in good agreement with those from the finite element method. Therefore, it can be deduced that the proposed model is competent in describing the mechanical behavior of fiber-reinforced materials when subjected to finite bending deformations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybrid manufacturing of arc-directed energy deposition (ADED) and inter-layer hammering can build components with low detrimental residual stress (RS) and warping. Inter-layer hammering with lower load demand has proved to be a promising technology to improve the microstructure and mechanical properties. In this paper, a finite element model of the ADED hybrid inter-layer hammering was constructed for the first time. The accuracy of the model is evaluated by comparing thermal history, RS, and warping. The results show that the maximum compressive RS -25Mpa appears at 3 mm from the top of the wall after a single inter-layer hammering. The RS of the inspection position is reduced by 74.6% after six layers of hammering compared with the wall manufactured by ADED alone, and low-stress distribution with a value of -30Mpa appears in the range of 7 mm to 15 mm from the substrate surface. The warping of the wall in the building direction was completely suppressed (from 0.21 mm to 0 mm). In addition, the plastic strain introduced by the hammering at the wall top exacerbates the "misfit" between the regions of the wall top, resulting in tensile stress at the wall top. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deposition path patterns play an important role in controlling residual stresses and deformation in direct energy deposition-arc (DED-arc) process. In this paper, the effects of various path patterns on the evolution of the temperature history, residual stress distribution, and substrate deformations are investigated through experiments and finite element analysis. The predicted results of temperature fields and substrate deformations are verified experimentally by the infrared thermal imager and the laser profile scanner, respectively. It is found that the path patterns have significant effects on the stress distribution in the first few layers, and the minimum substrate deformation is obtained by the zigzag path along the short edge of the block. The proposed finite element method and measuring method are confirmed to be effective and feasible, providing valuable insight into the residual stresses and deformations control in the DED-arc process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When solving open-region electromagnetic scattering problems using the standard finite element method, the infinite region exterior to the scatterer must be truncated with an artificial outer boundary. In the interior or finite part of the domain, finite elements can be used, but a boundary condition must be introduced at this artificial boundary to obtain a unique finite element solution. One class of boundary conditions designed for this purpose is called absorbing boundary conditions (ABCs). Several ABCs have been reported in the literature. These can be broadly classified into two categories: local and non-local. In this paper, we present new closed-form expressions for Nth-order local ABCs, equivalent to the well-known sequences of the Bayliss, Gunzburger, and Turkel boundary operators. To the best of our knowledge, these expressions have not yet been reported in the literature. Two- and three-dimensional problems are considered in this study. We also discuss the problem of incorporating custom ABCs into commercial finite element method programs, which are usually closed-source software packages. Two 2D electromagnetic scattering and radiation problems with known analytical solutions are analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the effect of free corner in angle-ply and cross-ply symmetric composite laminates on the interlaminar stresses is studied based on a global–local model using the finite element method. To do this, the global region is analyzed by the first-order shear deformation theory, and the local region is modelled by the layer-wise theory. The laminates are exposed under uniform mechanical extensional loading and thermal loading, and the effects of several factors, including the orientation of ply fiber and the thickness, layout, stacking, and number of plies, are examined on the interlaminar stresses at the vicinity of free corner. The presented results are compared with available literature which demonstrates good agreement. The results reveal that an increase in the layer thickness leads to a decrease in the interlaminar stresses connoting that the interlaminar stresses can be neglected in sufficiently thick laminates. For example, the normal and shear interlaminar stress is evaluated as 16.3 and 2.32 MPa for the ply thickness of 0.1 mm, respectively, while they decrease to 0.85 and 0.23 MPa for 1.5 mm thickness. It is also found that a change in the number of layers of laminate does not significantly affect the interlaminar stresses. Furthermore, the results show that, in angle-ply laminates, the corner effect is highlighted. The results of this study are useful in the optimal design of composite laminate against damage mechanisms such as delamination and matrix cracking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an innovative approach for the fast estimation of the mutual inductance between transmitting and receiving coils for Dynamic Wireless Power Transfer Systems (DWPTSs) is implemented. To this end, a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) is used; an image representing the geometry of two coils that are partially misaligned is the input of the CNN, while the output is the corresponding inductance value. Finite Element Analyses are used for the computation of the inductance values needed for CNN training. This way, thanks to a fast and accurate inductance estimated by the CNN, it is possible to properly manage the power converter devoted to charge the battery, avoiding the wind up of its controller when it attempts to transfer power in poor coupling conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The construction of diaphragm wall panels inevitably changes the initial stress condition and causes movements in the surrounding soil mass. The ground response is affected by a number of aspects including the ground condition and construction procedure, thus creating complexities and uncertainties to explain the field observation and predict the potential influence on adjacent assets. This paper analyzes observed data from field and model tests, and identifies important aspects which may affect the ground response during the diaphragm wall panel installation process. These aspects mainly include (i) construction details in the trench excavation, (ii) concreting characteristics, (iii) initial ground conditions, and (iv) the panel width. Finite element analyses are then conducted to understand their impact on the ground response in a systematic manner. The analysis procedure follows some typical test programmes reported in the literature, to reproduce the observed phenomenon and explain the mechanisms more consistently. This study demonstrates some key issues that should be considered carefully in practice to mitigate risks in the diaphragm wall installation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Workover operations are crucial for maintain the normal production of oil, gas and water wells and require significant manpower and material resources. In recent years, automation equipment has become more widely used in the operations of oilfield workover operations. The present paper established the finite element model of the newly developed tubing and sucker rod vertically handling equipment, and the deformation, equivalent stress and wind-resistant ability of the structure model under dead weight load and wind load are investigated. The wind load is equivalent to the wind pressure acting on the structural unit, and the transient wind field is composed through linear superposition of harmonic function with random amplitude and frequency. Results show that the maximum equivalent stress is much lower than the yield stress of the structural material under typical working conditions, the maximum displacement of the manipulator position meets the design requirements of positioning accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces a computational simulation scheme to describe the intrusion of corrosion-inducing chloride ions in prestressed bridge girders. This phenomenon impacts the durability of bridges in coastal zones or regions where deicing salts are used. The computational study is focused on two girders decommissioned from separate bridges in Virginia after 34 and 49 years of service. A time-dependent, nonlinear finite element scheme, accounting for coupled heat, moisture, and chloride transport, is formulated and used in the analyses. The model parameters are calibrated using data from material tests in the literature. Subsequently, two-dimensional analyses are conducted to determine the evolution of chloride in the girder cross-sections. Contrary to earlier studies using finite element analysis, which have been focused on laboratory specimens, the work presented herein is focused on reproducing the evolution of chloride ingress of actual bridge members, considering the local climate conditions through the use of temperature and relative humidity measurements from weather stations in the vicinity of the bridges. The simulations are found capable of capturing the actual chloride content at various depths from the surface, measured through titration tests. Further analyses indicate that using the simplified, design-oriented equations in the fib code may underestimate the chloride content during the lifespan of a bridge. A similar underestimation is observed if the impact of advective chloride transport is neglected in the finite element models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the heat transfer coefficient of a condenser, this paper proposes using a fin-tube condenser to replace a smooth-tube condenser in a domestic heat pump water heater. The finite element method is used to analyze the heat transfer coefficient of fin-tube condensers with different design parameters. By comparing the results of experiments with those obtained using CFD methods, it has been determined that the CFD method used in this study is feasible. Simulation results showed that the heat transfer coefficient enhanced clearly. The total thermal resistance of the fin-tube condenser decreased by 7% through increasing fin thickness. The total thermal resistance of the fin-tube condenser increased by 1–1.3% when fin spacing was increased. The heat transfer coefficient decreased severely and the maximum total thermal resistance of the fin-tube condenser increased by 8.7% with increasing fin height. In 600 s, when the fin spacing, fin height, fin thickness and inner diameter were 14 mm, 12.5 mm, 1.2 mm and 22.5 mm, respectively, compared to the smooth-tube condenser, the fin-tube condenser could increase the final water temperature by 18.37%, and the heat transfer coefficient would increase by about 95%. This research could provide a low-cost way to improve the heat transfer coefficient of condensers in domestic heat pump water heaters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a multi-objective design optimization of a power transformer to find the optimal geometry of its core and the low- and high-voltage windings, representing the minimum power losses and the minimum core and copper weights. The optimal design is important because it allows manufacturers to build more efficient and economical transformers. The approach employs a manufacturer's design methodology, which is based on the usage of the laws of physics and leads to an analytical transformer model with the advantage of requiring a low amount of computing time. Afterward, the multi-objective design optimization is defined along with its constraints, and they are solved using the Non-Sorting Genetic Algorithm III (NSGA-III), which finds a set of optimal solutions. Once an optimal solution is selected from the Pareto front, it is necessary to fine-tune it with the 3D Finite Element Analysis (FEA). To avoid the large computing times needed to carry out the 3D Finite Element (FE) model simulations used in multi-objective design optimization, Response Surface Methodology (RSM) polynomial models are developed using 3D FE model transformer simulations. Finally, a second multi-objective design optimization is carried out using the developed RSM empirical models that represent the cost functions and is solved using the NSGA-III. The numerical results of the optimal core and windings geometries demonstrate the validity of the proposed design methodology based on the NSGA-III. The used global optimizer has the feature of solving optimization problems with many cost functions, but it has not been applied to the design of transformers. The results obtained in this paper demonstrate better performance and accuracy with respect to the commonly used NSGA-II. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physical and chemical properties of cement base material for road pavement will undergo changes in high temperature environment, so improving the high temperature resistance and fire resistance of cement base material is very important for reducing the loss of road projects caused by high temperature. In actual engineering projects, maintenance measures are often adopted to repair the damaged components so that the roads could be used continuously, however, research on the thermal properties and fire resistance of cement base components of road pavement is insufficient, therefore, in view of this blank, this paper aims to study the thermal properties and fire resistance of road cement base material based on finite element analysis. At first, this paper measured the temperature inside the road cement base during the process of environmental thermal fatigue, analyzed the law of the response of cement base to the temperature changes under the action of relative humidity in the micro environment, and figured out the delay time of such response and the changes of internal temperature gradient. Then, this paper selected proper thermal parameters of road cement material and the stress-strain relationship under compression or tension in high temperature environment, and used the software Python to perform finite element analysis on the fire resistance of road cement base specimens. At last, the corresponding experimental results were given and the validity of the constructed model was verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The subgrade soil of asphalt pavement is significantly susceptible to changes in moisture content, and therefore many projects introduce polymer-based reinforcement to ensure soil performance. This paper aims to incorporate a variable representing the dry–wet cycle into the prediction model of resilient modulus of polymer reinforced soil. The polymer adopted is a self-developed subgrade soil solidification material consisting of sodium dodecyl sulfate and polyvinyl oxide. The current resilient modulus prediction model is improved, notably involving the effects of the dry–wet cycle. Combined with finite element method (FEM) analysis, the actual stress state of pavement and the coupling effect of dry–wet cycle and vehicle load on the resilient modulus are studied. The deterioration in resilient modulus with the variation in seasonal climate and load response is also investigated. Results show that the deviator stress is negatively correlated with the resilient modulus while the bulk stress has a linearly positive relation. The decreasing rate at low deviator stress is larger than that at the high level. Moreover, the dry–wet cycle can reduce the resilient modulus and the reducing amplitude is the largest at the first dry–wet cycle. FEM analysis shows that the middle position of the subgrade slope has the largest initial resilient modulus with decreasing amplitude in the first year of dry–wet cycles, while the upper position shows a smaller change. The variation in resilient modulus is closely related to the changes in cumulative volumetric water content. Considering that different positions of subgrade bear the external vehicle load, the equivalent resilient modulus is more realistic for guiding the subgrade design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fire hazards are generally considered to be one of the major disasters that cause damage to grid structures, and when exposed to fire, their mechanical properties will directly affect whether the structure is safe. In this paper, the failure mode, strain analysis, load-displacement curve, initial axial stiffness, bearing capacity, and ductility of the joint are analyzed by the tensile testing of stiffened welded hollow spherical joints exposed to fire. The results show that the failure of the joint exposed to fire is a pull-out failure. With increasing temperature, the initial axial stiffness and bearing capacity of the joints gradually decrease. The ductility of joints exposed to fire shows an increasing trend with increasing temperature. The finite element model is verified based on the experimental results. Through parametric analysis, the calculation method for measuring the bearing capacity and initial axial stiffness of tensile-stiffened welded hollow spherical joints exposed to fire are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nickel-based superalloy Inconel 718 is widely used in the aerospace industry for its excellent high-temperature strength and thermal stability. However, milling Inconel 718 presents challenges because of the significantly increased cutting force and vibration, since Inconel 718 is a typical difficult-to-machine material. This paper takes the milling process of Inconel 718 as the research object, initially, and a milling force model of Inconel 718 is established. Subsequently, the finite element analysis method is used to analyze the stress field, temperature field, and milling force in the milling process of Inconel 718. Building upon this, a dynamic equation of the milling of Inconel 718 is established, and based on the modal experiment, stability lobe diagrams are drawn. Furthermore, milling experiments on Inconel 718 are designed, and the results calculated using the milling force model and finite element analysis are verified through comparison to the experimental results; then, the fmincon optimization algorithm is used to optimize the processing parameters of Inconel 718. Eventually, the results of the multi-objective optimization illustrate that the best processing parameters are a spindle speed of 3199.2 rpm and a feed speed of 80 mm/min with an axial depth of cut of 0.25 mm. Based on this, the best machining parameters are determined, which point towards an improvement of the machining efficiency and quality of Inconel 718. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The expansion process of the base pipe of the expanded screen pipe includes large displacement elastic-plastic deformation problems such as geometric nonlinearity, material nonlinearity and contact nonlinearity. In this paper, based on the elastic-plastic deformation mechanism of the base pipe of expanded screen pipe, finite element equations are established and numerical simulation is used to construct a finite element simulation model to study the mechanical behavior and deformation law of F203.2 mm base pipe of the expanded screen pipe expansion process. The results show that the expansion rate has no effect on the increase of wall thickness, and the decrease is proportional to the expansion rate. The greater the expansion rate, the greater the residual stress at both ends of the slot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, two H-type flux switching permanent magnet linear generators with outer-translator and inner-translator configurations are discussed and compared to a more conventional flux switching topology. The stators consist of H-Type modules housing circumferential coils and are surrounded by two annular permanent magnets. In conventional flux switching machines, the windings are orientated perpendicular to the direction of motion and the conductors twist around the magnets. In H-type topologies, the orientation of the windings is in the same plain as the magnets and parallel to the direction of motion, resulting in an increase in flux linkage. The proposed topologies are designed for a low operating speed and a large magnetic gap, as found in wave energy converters. All topologies are optimized using the Taguchi optimization approach with the goals of reducing force ripple and increasing the average thrust force and efficiency. The 2D finite element method (FEM) is used in the optimization stage to calculate the optimized parameters of the presented generators, after which the optimized structures are simulated using 3D FEM, and the results are extracted. The results of the optimization show that the H-type topologies deliver a 20% higher shear stress whilst offering an easier to assemble structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mass-customization is related to optimizing the balance between flexibility, strongly required by the customer-focused industries and manufacturing efficiency, which is critical for market competitiveness. In the conventional industries, the process of designing, validating and manufacturing a product is long and expensive. Some of the common approaches for addressing those issues are parametric product modeling and Finite Element Analysis (FEA). However, the costs involved are still relatively high because of the very special expertise needed and the cost of the specialized software. Also, the specific design of the product cannot be validated in a real-time, which often leads to making hard compromises between the specific customer requirements and the structural properties of the product in its exploitation. In this paper, we propose the novel methodology for real-time structural analysis assistance for custom product design. We introduce the concept of so-called compiled FEA model, a Machine Learning (ML) model, consisting of dataset of characteristic product parameters and associated physical quantities and properties, selected ML algorithms and the sets of associated hyperparameters. A case study of creating a compiled FEA model for the case of internal orthopedic fixator is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a new multi-part composite frangible cover (MCFC) was designed and fabricated. The frangible cover, manufactured with a traditional manual lay-up method, is designed to conduct a simulated missile launch test using a specially developed test device. A weak zone structure of the composite multi-part frangible cover was designed, and the separation process of the cover was studied by numerical simulation. Based on the strength envelope of the weak zone and the equal-strength design principle, a design method for the weak zone structure of the composite multi-part frangible cover was proposed. A finite element model of the composite multi-part frangible cover was established, and the separation process was numerically simulated and analyzed. Afterward, the verification experiments were carried out. Close agreements between the numerical and experimental results are observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A steel-wire wound reinforced thermoplastic pipe (SWW-RTP) has been widely utilized in many industrial areas, and a soil landslide is an inevitable hazardous extreme condition for the SWW-RTP as it is usually buried underground. It is imperative to study the mechanical failure behavior and the failure criterion of the SWW-RTP under the combination of internal pressure and soil landslide conditions, and this paper is the first study to investigate the topic. In this paper, groups of stress–strain curves of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and steel wires were obtained by uniaxial tensile tests at different strain rates, with the help of a Digital Image Correlation device (DIC). A rate-dependent constitutive model was employed to represent the mechanical behavior of the HDPE and to help deduce the stress–strain curve of the HDPE under the required strain rate, estimated from the static simplification of the dynamic soil landslide. Afterwards, a finite element model of the SWW-RTP, embedded in a cubic of soil, was established with the software ABAQUS. The SWW-RTP model was composed of HDPE solid elements, embedded with steel-wire truss elements, and the soil was characterized with the extended Drucker–Prager model. A quartic polynomial displacement distribution was applied to the soil model to represent the soil landslide. Then, the mechanical response of the SWW-RTP was analyzed. It was found that the failure criterion of the HDPE yield was more suitable for the pipe subjected to internal pressure and soil landslide conditions, instead of the steel-wire strength failure criterion always used in traditional research on the SWW-RTP. Further, the influence of landslide width, internal pressure and steel-wire number were discussed. The larger the width of the landslide area, the gentler the deformation of the pipeline; this resulted in an increase in the maximum landslide and a decrease in the maximum curvature with the width of the landslide area. The relatively high internal pressure was beneficial to the safety of the SWW-RTP under landslide, because the internal pressure could increase the stiffness of the pipeline. The number of steel wires had a limited influence on the maximum landslide required for the SWW-RTP's failure. This work can be useful for the design and safe assessment of the SWW-RTP under internal pressure and soil landslide conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulator flashover caused by atmospheric icing is a serious accident with high frequency. The flashover risk on insulators during ice-melting process is higher than that during icing accretion process. Therefore, it is of great theoretical significances and engineering value to carry out research on risk prediction methods of ice-melting flashover on insulators. Firstly, this paper presents a thermal balance equation of the iced insulator surface for icing natural melting process and calculates the main influencing parameters of the ice-melting process by thermodynamic analysis. Secondly, this paper extracts the meteorological data from great numbers of on-site ice-melting flashover cases to calculate the meteorological condition with the highest flashover risk. On the basis of this, to judge the state of freezing or melting, a thermodynamic criterion of freezing and melting state is proposed, and the finite element analysis is applied to model iced and non-iced insulators, and the temperature distribution, the wall heat transfer coefficient distribution of the air-flow field are analyzed. The results suggest that the local micrometeorological temperature and the heat transfer coefficient have the greatest impact on the ice-melting process of insulators. The structure of insulator will be changed by the covered ice, ended up to a cone-like structure which will weaken the influence of the vortex on the central leeward side. The heat dissipation and melt characteristics of iced insulator will be quite different from that of non-iced insulator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSMs) have garnered increasing interest because of their advantages such as high efficiency, high power density, wide speed range, and fast dynamics. They have been employed recently in several industrial applications including robotics and electric vehicles (EVs). However, PMSMs have highly nonlinear magnetic characteristics, especially interior PMSMs, due to the existence of reluctance torque. Nonlinearity complicates not only machine modeling but also control algorithms. An accurate machine model is the key aspect for the prediction of machine performance as well as the development of a high-performance control algorithm. Hence, this paper presents an accurate modelling method for PMSMs. The proposed model method is applicable for all PMSMs, even multiphase machines. This paper considers a fractional slot concentrated winding 12/10 interior PMSM (IPMSM) for this study to demonstrate the effect of magnetic saturation and special harmonics. The developed model considers accurately the magnetic saturation, mutual coupling, spatial harmonics, and iron loss effects. It utilizes finite element analysis (FEA) to estimate the precise magnetic characteristics of IPMSM. The finite element model is calibrated precisely using experimental measurements. The iron losses are estimated within the simulation model as d- and q-axes current components. The model accuracy is validated experimentally based on a 12/10 IPMSM prototype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the finite element modeling of the dynamic properties of a delta robot attached to a steel frame. A distinguishing feature of the proposed modeling method is the application of the Guyan reduction method in modeling of frame foundations. The frame in question was analyzed in two variants: (i) without attached robot and (ii) with attached robot. Based on the established model, the dynamic properties (i.e., natural frequencies, mode shapes, and frequency response functions) of the frame in the two variants were analyzed. The obtained results were then experimentally verified and validated. It was found that the developed model showed an average relative error for natural frequencies of 4.3% in the case of the frame and 5.6% in the case of the frame with the robot. The paper demonstrated the validity of the proposed model, allowing accurate and fast determination of robotic system dynamic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Punching shear strengthening of existing reinforced concrete (RC) flat slabs can be required due to increased loads or design/construction defect. One of the more effective punching shear strengthening solutions, which has shown promising results is the use of post-installed L-shaped carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (L-CFRP) laminates bonded into predrilled holes through the slab in specific shear perimeter arrangements around the column. This paper presents an extensive finite element analysis (FEA) into RC slabs strengthened in punching shear using L-CFRP laminates. FEA models were developed using an existing experimental study as the baseline. After successful model calibration, parametric studies were used to explore the influence of critical parameters such as the concrete strength (32, 40 and 60 MPa) and the number of shear perimeters on the resulting punching shear capacity. In total, four RC slabs were modelled including an unstrengthened control specimen and an additional three specimens with different strengthening arrangements. A bond-slip model was introduced between the CFRP and the concrete and its calibration was described in this paper. Simulation results are compared with the experimental results in terms of load–deflection behaviour, FRP strains and crack patterns. The predicted peak loads calculated from the design codes and critical shear crack theory (CSCT) are compared and discussed in conjunction with the experimental and FEA results. The failure mode for the slabs were also compared with design codes and CSCT theory predictions. The study demonstrated the FEA results to have a good agreement with the experimental results in terms of load deflection behaviour, failure mode and L-CFRP strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on the investigation of the flexural behaviour of steel-concrete composite beams through non-linear finite element analysis. Both geometries, as well as material non-linearity, are considered. Steel-concrete composite beams are typically made consisting of a hot-rolled I-section steel beam and a concrete slab that is connected monolithically by using a shear connector. A shear connector is one of the key elements for developing the composite action used in steel-concrete composite structures. This paper deals with the flexible shear connectors such as studs and channels designed as per the Indian standards 11384. Initially, the FE models are validated by making comparisons with the experimental test results obtained by previous researchers, as available in the literature. In the present study, thirty three-dimensional simply supported composite beams are created and analysed using finite element commercial software package ANSYS15 workbench version subjected to two-point loads. The degree of shear connection, the strength of steel section and the geometry of stud and channel connectors are the primary parameters considered for the present research work, and the results are compared. The overall flexural response is provided, including failure modes, load-central deformation behaviour, and interface slip, as well as the effects of yield strength of steel, the geometry of the stud and channel shear connector along with the degree of shear interaction, are evaluated. The results show that the degree of interaction, the geometry of shear connectors and steel yield strength have significant influence. Subjected to flexure, steel-concrete composite beam section with channel connector is less evaluated so far; therefore, in the present research work, channel shear connector is taken into account to evaluate the flexural behaviour with the consideration of varying grades of steel section along with the degree of interaction and to compare the results with a different section of shear connectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There were many promising superconducting materials discovered in the last decades that can significantly increase the efficiency of large power transformers. However, these large machines are generally custom-made and tailored to the given application. During the design process the most economical design should be selected from thousands of applicable solutions in a short design period. Due to the nonlinearity of the task, the cost-optimal transformer design, which has the smallest costs during the transformers' planned lifetime, is usually not the design with the highest efficiency. Due to the topic's importance, many simplified transformer models were published in the literature to resolve this problem. However, only a few papers considered this preliminary design optimization problem in the case of superconducting transformers and none of them made a comparison with a validated conventional transformer optimization model. This paper proposes a novel FEM-based two-winding transformer model, which can be used to calculate the main dimension of conventional and superconducting transformer designs. The models are stored in a unified JSON-file format, which can be easily integrated into an evolutionary or genetic algorithm-based optimization. The paper shows the used methods and their accuracy on conventional 10 MVA and superconducting 1.2 MVA transformer designs. Moreover, a simple cost optimization with the 10 MVA transformer was performed for two realistic economic scenarios. The results show that in some cases the cheaper, but less efficient, transformer can be the more economic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural rims are highly loaded components which affect the functionality and safety of tractors significantly. For this reason, it is essential to prevent a damage of the rims. However, fatigue‐initiated cracks along the bolt circle arise at any time during application. Until now, the determining load for the crack initiation is unclear. The paper investigates this fatigue problem by experimental, analytical, and numerical methods. Therefore, a test rig using hydraulic actuators is designed to load the rim by rotating bending in combination with a lateral force. The loads are deduced by an analytical model of the tractor under different driving situations like cornering. The finite element model shows the critical locations by performing a fatigue analysis of the driving situation. The experimental and numerical results verify the assumption that the rotating bending in combination with a lateral force leads to the fatigue cracks also found by tractors in reality. Highlights: The paper shows the fatigue testing of 42″ tractor rims under rotating bendingAn analytical model for forces at the wheels for various driving situations is presentedA finite element analysis of this non‐proportional load situation is presentedComparison of experimental and numerical fatigue investigation is shown [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]